Premier League Temporarily Ban New “Related Party” Sponsors
In a move to tighten rules regarding “related party” sponsorship, the Premier League a looking into limiting these type of deals.
The Premier League To Tighten Sponsorship Regulation
After the Saudi takeover of Newcastle United, concerns were raised by other clubs regarding a potential transfer and wages arms race.
The current system only considered a sponsorship "related party" if it's reported as such in the club’s annual accounts. This means that deals between the likes of Manchester City and Etihad or Everton and USM (Alisher Usmanov’s company) do not fall in such category.
New deals related to the club owners are temporary banned
For now, any sponsorships proposal of this type will be refused. However, this is a temporary ban while clubs working out for a solution.
A working group has been established to tackle rule changes around sponsorship, headed by the Premier League chief executive, Richard Masters. It was established after the takeover of Newcastle United.
The value of deals should be a fair market price
They are working towards a new system that will require clubs to acquire pre-approval from the Premier League for sponsorship deals. This would ensure that the value of the contract is not inflated but at a fair market price.
The new rules would also cover shirt deals and stadium naming rights agreements.
What do you think of the Premier League's move to regulate “related party” sponsorship? Tell us down below.
Alexis Vega Wears Old Nike Mercurial Vapor 12 Jordan x PSG Boots
Mexican international Alexis Vega caught the attention of boot enthusiasts by lacing up in a unique pair of pink Nike Mercurial Vapor 12 Jordan x PSG boots. The Toluca forward chose the bold footwear for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, stepping onto the pitch for the inauguration scenario in a design that perfectly fits the current trend of vibrant football boots. Big thanks to @abcdefutbol.
Originally launched in 2018 as part of the highly successful collaboration between Jordan Brand and Paris Saint-Germain, the Mercurial Vapor 12 is now a rare sight in professional matches. Vega's choice of the eye-catching pink edition highlights his personal preference, with the boots reportedly being among his all-time favorites.
2026 World Cup Sleeve Badge Now Available in England Store
Most 2026 World Cup sleeve badges are currently not available for purchase separately; they are only offered as an add-on that is pre-applied to online jersey orders. However, they are now available with the England 2026 World Cup jersey and can be ordered through the team's official online store.
Viktor Gyokeres Sticks to Lucky Old-Gen Nike Mercurial Vapor 16 'Mad Ambition' Boots
Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres has developed a superstition regarding his football boots, choosing to stick with an older colorway of the Nike Mercurial Vapor 16. Despite Nike releasing several newer packs, the forward continues to wear the Mad Ambition edition. He considers this specific pair to be his lucky boots due to his prolific goalscoring form while wearing them. Big thanks to @abcdefutbol.
Interestingly, Gyokeres has been spotted testing and warming up in newer Nike Mercurial releases. However, when it comes to the actual matches, he consistently reverts to his trusted Mad Ambition Vapor 16s. This practice of wearing new boots during warm-ups but relying on a comfortable, proven pair for competitive play highlights how important gear familiarity and superstition can be for a striker.
Uruguay Requests FIFA 'Legacy' Patch for Muslera's 2026 World Cup Kit
The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) has formally requested that FIFA allow goalkeeper Fernando Muslera to wear the special 'Legacy' patch on his jersey sleeve during the 2026 World Cup. The patch is designated for players who have participated in five or more World Cup tournaments, a milestone Muslera is reaching with his inclusion in the 2026 squad.
Muslera was initially excluded from receiving the patch by FIFA because he did not register any playing time during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, despite being part of the official squad. His previous World Cup appearances came in 2010, 2014, and 2018. The AUF is now pushing for his recognition alongside other five-time tournament veterans such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Manuel Neuer, and Luka Modrić.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper is expected to start in Uruguay's opening match of the 2026 World Cup. If FIFA approves the request, Muslera's jersey will feature the 'Legacy' patch, marking his long-standing service to the national team across five different World Cup campaigns.
Spain 2026 World Cup Climacool Pre-Match Jacket Turns Heads
Spain's 2026 Climacool pre-match jacket, designed by Adidas for the 2026 World Cup, has caught the attention of fans and media alike. Worn by the players ahead of their matches in the tournament, the jacket has sparked a strong reaction online.
The Adidas Spain 2026 pre-match jacket features the usual design but with the striking, glossy Climacool look.
The Adidas Climacool 2026 World Cup Climacool jacket is not available to buy - Adidas only offers the regular version.
Thibaut Courtois Wears Special World Cup Golden Glove Patch
Following the introduction of special FIFA player patches for the 2026 World Cup, Thibaut Courtois has been spotted wearing a special Golden Glove patch on his Belgium kit, commemorating his award-winning performance at the 2018 tournament.
The new initiative by FIFA allows past award winners, including recipients of the Golden Boot, Golden Ball, and Golden Glove, to display their historic individual achievements directly on the sleeves of their national team shirts.