The Football Association of Ireland today unveiled Newstalk 106-108 fm, Ireland's independent national talk radio broadcaster, as top tier sponsor of the League of Ireland in an agreement that will last three years starting in March 2009.

Under the agreement, Newstalk will also become title sponsor of the Newstalk A Championship which is played by 16 clubs country-wide under the Premier and First divisions.

From next season, the League of Ireland is being offered to the market under a new multi-sponsor format, and with today's three year deal, Newstalk will benefit from signage, marketing and promotional rights associated with the League of Ireland and the Newstalk A Championship.

With the addition of Newstalk as a top tier sponsor, the FAI will now be in a position to provide an increase in prize funding and subsidies for League of Ireland clubs next year.

Welcoming the announcement, John Delaney, chief executive of the FAI, said: 'I am very happy that Newstalk will be one of the League of Ireland's top tier sponsors in 2009.

'Under next season's multi sponsor format, the League and its clubs will benefit from increased prize funding.

'The quality of football played by Irish clubs has improved consistently and with Newstalk's proven record for quality sports broadcasting, they will be an excellent partner who will assist us in showcasing the quality and drama of League of Ireland football.'

Announcing Newstalk's sponsorship deal, chief executive Elaine Geraghty said: 'Newstalk is delighted to announce our sponsorship of the League of Ireland.

'The partnership of Ireland's national commercial talk radio station with the League reflects Newstalk's commitment to the sport and our commitment to provide unrivalled coverage of Irish sport at both national and local level.

'The sports team at Newstalk, delivering over 26 hours of sport weekly, are dedicated to providing coverage that entertains and informs our listeners all over the country.

'We are confident that this new sponsorship with the League of Ireland and the Newstalk A championship will help build domestic soccer and ensure both Newstalk and the FAI build their presence among new and existing supporters.'

Next Fixture

Derry City / April 22nd @ 7:45pm
Competition: League
Venue: Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium
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Team	Pld	Pts
Shelbourne	10	21
Derry City	10	16
Bohemian FC	10	16
Shamrock Rovers	9	15
St Patrick's Athletic	10	14
Sligo Rovers	9	12
Waterford FC	10	12
Galway United FC	9	11
Drogheda United	9	8
Dundalk	10	4