The year 2024 has been marked by significant change, turbulence, and challenges for Rangers, with Philippe Clement navigating the club through a series of difficulties. Despite these hurdles, the hastily rebuilt squad is beginning to show promise, as evidenced by their spirited draw against Spurs at Ibrox, offering a glimpse of their potential.
Off the pitch, however, issues remain. The departure of commercial director Karim Virani has caused frustration, particularly with the Castore merchandising deal due to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season.
Rangers to Transition from Castore to Umbro in Kit Deal Shift
According to Footy Headlines, Rangers appear poised to renew their partnership with Castore—albeit in a modified form. If reports are accurate, the club will continue its relationship with Castore beyond the current five-year agreement, but with a notable change.
Under a new deal signed in March 2024, Castore will produce Rangers’ kits under a licensing arrangement with Umbro, eliminating any visible Castore branding from Rangers’ kits, Ibrox, or Auchenhowie.
Castore, which has exclusive rights to collaborate with clubs like Hearts, Bournemouth, Brentford, and West Ham United (currently sponsored by Umbro), would handle production while Umbro branding takes center stage.
Who Owns Umbro?
Umbro, a storied English sportswear brand, is currently owned by Iconix Brand Group, which acquired it from Nike in 2012 for $225 million (£178 million).
Rangers and Umbro share a rich history, with the brand supplying some of the club’s most iconic kits in the 1970s, 1980s, and early 2000s. Major trophies, including the last won under Umbro branding in 2011 with David Weir as captain, are part of this legacy.
For Rangers, little would change operationally under the new agreement. The primary focus remains ensuring maximum financial benefit from the deal to boost the club’s revenue and overall financial stability.
