English Premier League club Newcastle United has extended its shirt sponsorship deal with Asian betting and gaming operator Fun88.
While the length of the extension has not been revealed, it will continue a relationship that was first established in 2017, and due to come to an end at the conclusion of the 2019-20 Premier League season.
As the club’s primary partner, Fun88 branding will continue to appear on the team’s shirts and training wear.
“We are delighted Fun88 has renewed its relationship with Newcastle United and committed its support to the club over a number of years to come,” Newcastle managing director Lee Charnley said.
“Building on the success of our partnership to date, we look forward to this next phase and working together to engage fans and grow our collective reach around the globe.”
Established in 2008, Fun88 offers online betting, live casino games, slots and keno in multiple languages. It has leveraged its relationship with Newcastle to run social media competitions, as well as ticket and shirt giveaways throughout the partnership.
“Fun88 is delighted to continue its association with Newcastle United Football Club,” a spokesperson for the operator said. “Together with the club, we live the dream of expanding our fan base across all continents, especially in Asia.
“Fun88 is optimistic that this partnership will assist us in becoming the leading gaming and entertainment platform in countries across the world.”
The partnership has not been without controversy, with the English Football Association fining Newcastle £7,500 for having youth team players wear Fun88-branded kit in April 2018.
This contravenes FA rules, which state “services and related activities such as alcohol and gambling” cannot be worn by under-18 teams.
