Rangers retailers Castore have struck a landmark deal with the Republic of Ireland national teams – and left Celtic fans in something of a kit dilemma.
In the Manchester-based retailer’s first foray into international football, Castore have secured a deal with the Republic of Ireland men’s, women’s and youth teams and pre-orders for the first kit open next week.
It marks a landmark moment for Castore, who have continued to expand in football ever since signing their first deal with Rangers back in 2020.
The situation will present something of a dilemma to Celtic fans, who’ve largely goaded and teased Castore since their involvement with Rangers.
But now, all those Republic of Ireland jerseys will be sporting a brand synonymous with their eternal rivals and it presents the staunchest of the Parkhead club’s fans with a Castore dilemma.
It’s already caused something of a meltdown amongst the Republic of Ireland support and if you listen closely enough you’ll hear Rangers fans chuckling away quietly in the background.
Castore sign landmark Republic of Ireland deal
Whilst the retailer have also continued to move into other sports, such as cricket, rugby, tennis and motorsports, the approach in football has been a little more considered.
Castore have previously admitted the initial success of the partnership with Rangers has acted a springboard for the rest of their deals, with the brand boasting a range of footballing partnerships across Europe.
Preston North End became the latest British club to join their roster, with Premier League trio Newcastle United, Wolves and Aston Villa joining Rangers and League Two side Salford City.
On the continent, the retailer also has contracts with Sevilla (Spain), Genoa (Italy), Bayer Leverkusen (Germany) and Feyenoord (Netherlands).
But the Republic of Ireland deal is the first time Castore have moved into the international market and it’s the latest development in their hunt for world domination.
As the company looks to be valued north of £1bn this year, they’re looking to secure a whopping £166m of fresh funding.