Sponsor Spotlight -- World Cup Cleats; Canada, Slovak Sponsors

World Cup Cleats

Adidas released four cleat designs in celebration of the upcoming 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

The Adizero F50, Predator Lethal Zones, NitroCharge and 11Pro brands will feature special designs in Brazilian colors inspired by Carnival.

Leo Messi, Gareth Bale, Mesut Özil, Dani Alves, Oscar, Xavi, Karim Benzema, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Jozy Altidore, Omar Gonzalez and Graham Zusi will debut the collection by wearing the cleats in upcoming matches.

"Brazil is a country rooted in rich soccer tradition, inspired by high energy, bright colors and lively spirit," said Ernesto Bruce, director of soccer, adidas America in a statment.

"The Samba Collection captures Brazil’s unique character and brings an explosion of color to the field that players and fans won’t be able to miss."

COC to appear in Stores

The Canadian Olympic Committee signed an agreement with Canada Tire to feature COC collections in boutiques and Canada Tire stores across Canada.

The eight-year agreement will see Olympic apparel on sale in Sport Check’s and Canada Tire stores in non-Olympic years.

"Olympic gear is always difficult in non-Olympic years, but this new retail deal will keep sales from slowing too dramatically in between Olympic Games," said COC CEO Chris Overholt to the Toronto Star.

Slovak Sochi Sponsor

Slovak Telekom will sponsor Team Slovakia during the Sochi Olympics.

Slovak Telekom previously was a partner during the London Olympics, where it provided Slovak fans with a space at the Magio Beach installation.

Sochi Protein Drink

Core Power is the "Official Protein Drink" of the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics.

The company announced the distinction on their website, while promoting special limited edition Sochi 2014 bottles here.

Media Watch

…The Associated Press reports that Rio is looking to secure $1.5 Billion in sponsorship money to make up for a lack of public funds for the Olympics.

…Zico Coconut water is sending a lucky fan and their friend to the Sochi Olympics to meet Olympic Champion Julia Mancuso.

Written byAaron Bauer.

For general comments or questions,click here.

20 Years at #1:Your best source of news about the Olympics isAroundTheRings.com, for subscribers only.