PUMA(R) Signs Italian National Soccer Team Gli Azzurri Looks to Alternative Brand for Inspiration and Success

Herzogenaurach, Germany, 06.12.2002 (PROTEXT) - PUMA A.G. andthe Federazione Italiana Giuco Calcio (F.I.G.C.) - the ItalianFootball Association - today announced an exclusive partnershipthat will see the global athletic company as the officialsupplier to all associated teams of the Italian FA. PUMA(R), helped by its successful association with Seria A clubS.S. Lazio, has built a strong foothold in the Italian market.These successes by PUMA's subsidiary, PUMA Italia S.R.L, haveadded to the global sales growth for 2002. "This is the perfect match," explained Jochen Zeitz, Chairmanand CEO of PUMA. "Joining forces with the Italian NationalSoccer Team gives PUMA the perfect platform to further showcaseour creativity and alternative approach as a sportslifestylebrand. We are delighted to have such an exciting and momentouschallenge on our cards." "We are pleased that PUMA has chosen the Italian National Teamas a partner and that they are putting trust in the Azzurri,"said Franco Carraro, FIGC President. "The Federation considersthe agreement to be extremely positive and the partnershipconfirms that Italian soccer has a worldwide impact. Wesincerely hope that both parties, the FIGC and PUMA, will sharethis experience with mutual satisfaction, working together forthe next 4 years." The new agreement commences on January 1, 2003 and includes allon-field, sideline, training and representation apparel,accessories as well as a selection of footwear offerings. TheItalian National Team looks to debut their new PUMA kit at anunconfirmed international friendly match on February 12, 2003.Italy's first competition match of 2003 will be at home againstFinland on March 29th. PUMA(R) is the global athletic brand that successfully fusesinfluences from sport, lifestyle and fashion. PUMA's uniqueindustry perspective delivers the unexpected in sportlifestylefootwear, apparel and accessories, through technical innovationand revolutionary design. Established in Herzogenaurach,Germany in 1948, PUMA distributes products in over 80 countries.For further information please visit www.puma.com. ots Original Text Service: PUMA Internet:http://www.presseportal.de Football Contact: Filip Trulsson Football Marketing PUMA +499132 747215 filip.trulsson@puma.com Media Contact: Lisa Beachy International Public Relations PUMA+ 1 617-488-2945 lisa.beachy@puma.com

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