Coca-Cola Co has inked a four-year deal with US Soccer and Major League Soccer, reports, www.sportspromedia.com/. As a result of the deal, Coca-Cola is to become the official non-alcoholic beverage of the national soccer league and the national soccer federation.

The deal will allow Coca-Cola to use in-stadium signs, MLS and US Soccer marks and player appearances at hospitality events.

Atlanta-based Coca-Cola Co won the bid for the rights through Soccer United Marketing, the commercial arm of MLS, and replaces PepsiCo Inc. Pepsi had been with the MLS since the league's inception in 1996, but its contract expired in December.

Ivan Pollard, senior vice president of investment, connections and assets for Coca-Cola North Americas, said: "Why now? I think 'Why not before?' would be an equally appropriate question.

"The sport's had a real burgeoning growth, and the domestic game and national teams are really attracting young fans."

Coca-Cola's sponsorship starts this week with the sold-out 15th April exhibition match between Mexico and the US in San Antonio.