J&J to serve as global sponsor for 2014 FIFA World Cup

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. — Johnson & Johnson on Thursday announced that the company has entered into an agreement to become a global sponsor of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil, becoming the eighth and final FIFA World Cup sponsor.

With this sponsorship, Johnson & Johnson will be the exclusive and official healthcare sponsor, with the ability to promote across their consumer, medical devices and diagnostics, and pharmaceutical businesses.

"The FIFA World Cup unites people of all cultures, ages and socioeconomic levels like no other event, and we're excited to tap into this passion and reach to further impact health and wellness around the world," said Brian Perkins, corporate VP corporate affairs at J&J. "Through this sponsorship, the company will be able to reach new professionals and consumers and deepen our commitment and connection to the people and communities we serve."

Through its engagement with the FIFA World Cup, J&J will provide access to its broad range of products and services — including vision, oral, sun, skin and wound care products — and encourage healthier lifestyles for football fans around the world.

"Having a global, broadly based and trusted company like Johnson & Johnson as a FIFA World Cup Sponsor is a great asset for FIFA, and we are honored to welcome them on board," said Thierry Weil, FIFA marketing director.

J&J has a nearly 80-year history in Brazil, the company stated. Brazil also represents an important emerging market for J&J, providing a broad range of consumer, medical devices and diagnostics, and pharmaceutical products.