Yesterday, the PUMA website posted a press release that the company and the Moroccan Royal Football Federation (FRMF) would be making PUMA the official supplier to the Lions de’Atlas (Atlas Lions), the national team of Morocco.

According to PUMA, their company will supply all on-field, sideline, training and representation apparel and equipment to the men’s national teams, as well as the women’s ‘A’ national team well beyond the upcoming 2010 world cup. PUMA is known for its support of African football - they also supply to the national teams of Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Cameroon, Egypt, Tunisia, Angola, Togo and Senegal.

Jochen Zeitz, PUMA CEO and Chairman is quoted on PUMA’s website as saying “the partnership with Morocco further underlines PUMA’s commitment to African football. Morocco has a great football tradition and we are proud to be able to associate ourselves with one of the dominant forces in African football. We welcome Morocco to the PUMA family and are looking forward to a successful partnership.” The President of the FRMF seconded Zeitz’s enthusiasm, stating that PUMA’s support of African football is “unquestionable.”

Although Morocco didn’t qualify for the FIFA World Cup in 2002 or 2006, they did play in 1994 and 1998, albeit poorly.
Morocco also bid in 1988 for the 1994 World Cup and in 2004 for the 2010 World Cup, but obviously failed in their goal to host. In my opinion, they’re not particularly ready, lacking infrastructure and well, stadiums. Not to mention that it would be a shame if they didn’t qualify for their own hosting year.

Perhaps the team’s new look will inspire them?