Leeds United has announced another new signing, in a deal that sees North Defence become the Official Defence Partner of the club for the 2026/27 Premier League season.
Formerly a bronze partner for the last campaign, North Defence has levelled up its commitment to ‘The Whites’ at a time when the business is also pushing ahead during its next phase of growth.
With its UK HQ in Elland, the military vehicle manufacturer is the country’s leading producer of light mobility vehicles (LMVs) for Western EU NATO member states. With roots in frontline service and rapid-response engineering – dating back to 2008 – the organisation combines real military experience with agile manufacturing and advanced technology, to deliver vehicles built for modern defence needs.
As part of the new agreement, North Defence branding will be featured prominently around Elland Road on home matchdays, including on the big screen and LED boards, ensuring strong visibility to all supporters visiting the stadium.
Commenting on the collaboration, North Defence founder and CEO Oliver North, said: “It’s a genuine pleasure to partner with the club that I’ve cheered on at Elland Road since the mid-nineties. Many of our team of tradespeople, engineers and office workers have also been supporting Leeds through the highs and lows of the past three decades, so it’s personal to many of us.
“Under Leeds’ ownership, it is clear to see their ambition and desire to partner with global brands whilst honouring and supporting local companies that act as the backbone of Yorkshire. Many businesses in this region – particularly in manufacturing – work hard to operate in a league of their own, particularly when it comes to quality, agility and job creation.
“The partnership is therefore a perfect one, and we look forward to marching on together into the new season.”
Phil Hardman, Partnerships Director at Leeds United Football Club, added: “We are excited to welcome North Defence on board as an Official Partner for the upcoming 2026/27 Premier League campaign. Their motto is ‘mission ready’, which I think can be said for both brands as we prepare for the start of the season.
“They have a real understanding of operational challenges which shapes everything they produce, whilst also creating the best work environment possible to drive success. Their foundations are rooted in integrity and a strong work ethic, which aligns closely with Leeds United.
“It will be great to continue strengthening our relationship with everyone at North Defence, and we look forward to supporting them and helping them to build their brand where possible over the next year.”
Known for its vibrant social media presence, North Defence announced the collaboration by releasing a behind-the-scenes video featuring iconic sports promoter Eddie Hearn – a renowned football fan and vocal supporter of North Defence (previously under the North Fire banner) for over 15 years.
With roots dating back to 2008, North Defence has a Trans-European presence, with an engineering innovation hub in Luxembourg and a best of British manufacturing facility in Elland, West Yorkshire. Having supplied 422 high-specification LMVs in the last 12 months alone, founder Oliver North is weeks away from announcing a significant additional investment in the business.