London City Lionesses secure record women's football deal

London City Lionesses have secured what their owner, Michele Kang, describes as the largest front-of-shirt sponsorship deal in women's football history, partnering with Nike in a landmark agreement ahead of the club's second Women's Super League season. The deal, announced on Thursday, September 3, 2026, is hailed as a "game-changing moment" for the sport, with Kang stating it surpasses some men's Premier League shirt deals in value. The financial terms and length of the agreement have not been publicly disclosed. The announcement comes as the WSL kicks off its 2026-27 campaign, with London City hosting Manchester United on Friday, September 4. The club, owned by American entrepreneur Kang, has made significant headlines this summer by signing high-profile players including two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas, former England goalkeeper Mary Earps, and Spain defender Mapi León. Putellas shared the news of the sponsorship on her Instagram account. Kang emphasized the deal's significance, telling BBC Sport, "I can absolutely confirm that this is the largest women-only front-of-shirt deal. It is higher than the Atlanta number.