The FA has confirmed that health and life insurance firm Vitality has been named as the Women’s FA Cup’s new title sponsor for the next three years.
As a result of the partnership, the competition will be renamed to the Vitality Women’s FA Cup with the relationship officially kicking off from the quarterfinals of the 2019/20 edition, which was postponed due to COVID-19.
Kelly Simmons, The FA’s director of the women’s professional game stated: “I’m delighted that a recognised brand such as Vitality has signed up to partner with us and sponsor such a prestigious competition as the Women’s FA Cup.
“We recognise that during a very difficult time for everyone, this is a big commitment that Vitality has made in becoming primary sponsor of the Women’s FA Cup, and I’m really looking forward to working with them as we look to grow the competition.
“This partnership not only highlights the affection that so many have for the Women’s FA Cup, but it also demonstrates the growing interest in the women’s game, which is something I know Vitality is keen to develop alongside us.”
The agreement continues to see Vitality involved in the development of women’s football with the firm recently announcing former England international Alex Scott as its new ambassador. This season 376 teams are expected to enter into the tournament with the 2020-21 Final due to be played at Wembley Stadium on Saturday May 21 2021.
Nick Read, managing director for Vitality, added: “We’re incredibly excited to be announcing this new partnership with the FA today. We’ve been involved in both football and supporting women’s sport for many years, and today’s announcement highlights our commitment to the women’s game.
“There’s never been a more important time to be involved in women’s football, and by working with the FA we hope to drive visibility of the women team, showcasing this great sport and encouraging millions more people get active and play football, in line with our core purpose to make people healthier and enhance and protect their lives.”
As previously mentioned, the quarter finals of the 2019/20 tournament are still yet to be played due to the global health pandemic delaying the competitions restart. Those fixtures are set to take place on September 26-27 with the final being played Sunday November 1.
