Puma today announced its partnership CAF as the official fan supplier for the Africa Cup of Nations.

This partnership will see the first merchandise developed and distributed before the first fixture between South Africa and Cape Verde on January 19 and will continue throughout the tournament.

Puma has the exclusive worldwide rights to develop and distribute sport and sport lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories carrying the logos of the Nations Cup.

The deal with CAF also includes exclusive rights for Puma to operate retail stores, vending stands and kiosks in the stadium.

Puma has partnered with Totalsports to execute the retail side of the operation in South Africa during the tournament.

Totalsports will operate and manage the Official Fanshops and will also be the exclusive distributor of Puma’s official merchandise, selling a comprehensive range of the product in their stores across the country.

Brett Bellinger, Marketing Director for PUMA South Africa, says: “This partnership with CAF’s major competition is very positive for the brand; we’re very pleased to be able to work together with CAF to provide African football fans in both South Africa and those visiting for the tournament an opportunity to show their support and purchase official fan merchandise.”

Puma has a strong heritage with African football that stretches back almost two decades and has grown progressively over the years.

Since 1998, Puma has had an association with the continent, investing in grassroots projects, player relationships and African Federation partnerships.