Off the heels of another French Open tournament, the French Tennis Federation (FFT) has announced an extension of its long-running partnership with Lacoste.
The extension will last until 2030 with Lacoste remaining a partner of Roland-Garros, a partnership that dates as far back as 1929 when its Founder René Lacoste won the Davis Cup on French Soil.
As part of the Parisian Grand Slam, Lacoste, a loyal partner of the tournament since 1971, will maintain its current visibility with spaces in the village and on the Philippe-Chatrier Court, at the Grande Boutique, as well as 100 square metres of retail space throughout the stadium.
The Crocodile brand will continue to provide outfits for referees, ball boys and girls, hostesses and children participating in the “Entrée de rêve” operation, which allows young people to accompany players to their chairs as they enter the court.
This agreement also includes the design of a 100% eco-friendly co-branded collection, covering textiles, footwear, underwear and leather goods.
Gilles Moretton, President of the FFT, stated: “We are very proud to extend our wonderful history with Lacoste, both with Roland-Garros and the FFT, thus ensuring the longevity of this unique and historic partnership.
“The Crocodile brand will continue to elegantly dress our ball boys and girls, as well as our referees during Roland-Garros, and all our French teams.
“We are also very pleased that Lacoste is participating in the ‘Tennis Wall’ operation, enabling the renovation of training walls, an initiative that should be particularly appreciated by our clubs.”
The new agreement marks Lacoste’s support for the FFT through the renovation of training walls at affiliated clubs across France to promote the accessibility and attractiveness of the sport.
Lacoste will also participate, alongside the FFT, in promoting para-tennis by providing grants to several wheelchair tennis players – men and women – in the Open and Quad categories.
Thierry Guibert, CEO of Lacoste, added: “Our presence at Roland-Garros for over 50 years is natural for us given our inextricable ties. Being a partner of this cornerstone of French and global tennis fully aligns with Lacoste’s unique fashion-sport vision, which celebrates its tennis roots every day.
“Being part of Roland-Garros contributes to the prominence of our craftsmanship and the French elegance we embody. We are delighted to continue our collaboration for an additional five years.”
Yesterday’s (9 June) French Open final saw Carlos Alcaraz claim his first Grand Slam at Roland-Garros, beating Alexander Zverev for his third Grand Slam overall.
