FIFA has partnered with Harrod Sport, a leading equipment manufacturer, to create the world’s first FIFA Quality approved goal.
After being approached by FIFA to take part in a leading-edge programme to improve the standard of football goals globally, Harrod Sport has been hard at work developing FIFA Quality certified football goals in time for this year’s World Cup, starting in November.
What do the FIFA Quality approved packages include?
Due to Harrod Sport’s wealth of experience supplying football equipment for major events, including last summer’s EURO 2020 tournament, its products required just a handful of design amends to meet FIFA’s strict criteria. This meant FIFA was able to approve two packages, with more to follow.
Package 1
- 4G Stadium Pro Goal
- Square Stadium Box Net – 1.8m
- 4G Stadium Pro Bottom Hinged Net Support
- 4G Aluminium Hinged Net Support
- 4G Stadium Pro F/Hang Net Supports – 4 Pole
Package 2
- 4G Stadium Goal
- Hex Stadium Box Net – 1.8m
- 4G Steel Bottom Hinged Net Support
- Stadium Pro F/Hang Net Supports – 4 Pole
Clubs and stadiums can either purchase the FIFA Quality certified packages or the individual items required to upgrade their existing goals.
What are the key features?
The goals in the FIFA Quality approved packages use a pioneering ‘pro precision system’, allowing their height to be accurately adjusted by up to 100mm whilst in situ. This will greatly aid grounds professionals who must ensure that goals are set correctly for every match – essential at the top level.
Reinforcements have been made to several other parts of the goals for superior strength and improved aesthetics. New locks and storage features have also been developed, making these the most advanced football goals on the market.
What was it like working with FIFA?
Throughout the development stage, Harrod Sport’s main task was working through FIFA’s policies and standards for quality, humanity and fair treatment of all stakeholders: a process they passed with flying colours.
Commenting on Harrod Sport’s partnership with FIFA, Kevin Utton, Director of Sports Sales and Marketing for Harrod Sport, said: “We have always had a close working relationship with international governing bodies, including FIFA. Once we heard they were launching a FIFA Quality Programme for Football Goals, we knew we wanted to be a part of it, having already supplied many of the world’s most prestigious clubs and competitions.”
Utton added: “Having our products used at major events and now also rubber-stamped as FIFA Quality approved means a great deal to our staff, customers and everyone associated with Harrod Sport - it’s a proud moment for us all.”
FIFA were never in doubt that Harrod Sport could deliver its vision to create a new global standard for football goals.
Alan Ferguson, Senior Pitch Management Manager for FIFA, said: “Having been in the football world for many years, I know quality and service when I see it, and that is exactly why I have had the pleasure of working with Harrod Sport for many years. I am very familiar with their goals and have had the privilege of seeing them on my travels all over the world.”
Ferguson added: “Now in my role as Senior Pitch Management Manager at FIFA, I know if Harrod Sport is supplying product for a tournament, it will be to the highest possible standard. I am delighted they are now working in partnership with FIFA and have their products FIFA Quality approved.”
To learn more about how Harrod Sport is working with FIFA to raise the standard of football equipment for current and future generations, visit: https://www.harrodsport.com/advice-and-guides/harrod-sport-introduces-the-worlds-first-fifa-quality-certified-goal
