Puma official supplier for Red Bull

Puma, the world's third-biggest maker of sportswear and equipment, said Tuesday that it had signed a deal with the energy drink company Red Bull to become official supplier for its four motor sport teams in the next few years.

"Puma and Red Bull announced that they have agreed to team up for the next several years," the companies said in a statement. "As of the 2007 race season, Puma will become the official supplier of all four Red Bull Motorsport teams: Red Bull Racing, Scuderia Toro Rosso, Red Bull NASCAR and Red Bull Air Race."

The deal would enable Puma to strengthen its position in the motor sport category. Both Formula One teams – Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso – would be equipped with fire-proof Puma racing and team suits, boots and accessories, the statement said.

In addition, Puma would also supply track suits, boots, clothing and accessories to the Red Bull NASCAR team starting this race season.

Furthermore, the German firm would provide the Red Bull Air Race team with team and pilot suits as well as shoes and accessories.

"Our new partner Red Bull fits perfectly to the Puma brand: Red Bull always delivers a convincing performance on the race track and like Puma combines sport with lifestyle," said Puma Chief Executive Jochen Zeitz.

Puma are also involved with BMW Sauber, Renault, Ferrari and Williams.