McIlroy set for sponsorship switch

Rory McIlroy’s big-money switch to Nike moved a step closer today after Jumeirah Group announced that it is not renewing its sponsorship deal with the world number one.

McIlroy is expected to sign a 10-year deal with Nike which is reported to be worth €250m to the 23-year-old from Northern Ireland.

Jumeirah Group had sponsored the two-time major winner since he was 18, but said in a statement that they had “jointly agreed” to bring the agreement to a close.

McIlroy said: “Jumeirah became my first corporate sponsor when I turned professional back in 2007, and I would like to thank everyone at the company for their support in helping me become the player I am today.”