The Macron Hero is to continue to appear on the shirts worn by Irish Football Association match officials.
The Irish FA and Macron have announced the renewal of their partnership for the supply of technical and leisure sportswear to Northern Ireland’s referees.
Macron says the continuation of the partnership reflects its strong commitment to refereeing as Official UEFA Referee Match Kit Supplier and as partner to the refereeing departments of the RFEF (Spanish Royal Football Federation), SFL (Swiss Football Association) and the FAW (Football Association of Wales).
The Bologna-based sportswear company designs and develops innovative, high-performance technical clothing that enables match officials to perform their essential role to the best of their ability.
The renewed agreement with the Irish FA covers the supply of match kits, training and travel wear to match officials in the NIFL Premiership, NIFL Championship and intermediate leagues. And participants in the Irish FA National Referee Academy and the Talents and Mentors programme will also wear Macron kit.
“In recent years Macron has invested heavily in research to develop dedicated sportswear for the refereeing sector,” said Gianluca Pavanello, CEO of Macron.
“The renewal of this partnership once again confirms the quality of our products on the international market. We are delighted that our brand will continue to appear on the kits of the Irish Football Association’s match officials.
“The garments we make for referees are the latest word not just in sportswear technology and performance but in practicality, comfort and style, too.”
The Italian company has been a supplier to the association over the past three years – and the new agreement will cover the next four years.
Mike Riley, the Irish FA’s Head of Refereeing, said: “We are delighted to continue working closely with such a respected and leading worldwide sports brand.
“Our referees will continue to benefit from Macron’s top quality match day and training wear.”
Image: Referee Steven Gregg donned Macron gear in the NIFL Premiership game between Crusaders and Carrick Rangers at the weekend.
