Gripple Teams Up with Sheffield TikTok Icon Steve Bracknall to Sponsor Royal Oak FC
Posted by: electime 26th August 2025
Sheffield-based manufacturer Gripple has announced they’re the proud shirt sponsors of the Royal Oak Football Club for the 2025/26 season, led by Sheffield legend and TikTok personality Steve Bracknall.
From humble beginnings in the Steel City to becoming a global leader in wire joining and tensioning solutions with seven sites across South Yorkshire and 10 more worldwide, Gripple’s success has always been rooted in community. This new partnership reflects that spirit, bringing together two Sheffield institutions: one leading the way in manufacturing innovation, the other leading the way in fantasy Sunday League banter.
Famed for his tongue-in-cheek pre-match pep talks and trademark mix of passion and humour, Steve Bracknall has become a fan favourite online, amassing more than a million followers. And what’s more, the Royal Oak Football Club, whose Sunday league antics are featured on Steve’s platforms regularly, is captained by Gripple’s very own Tommy, a Production Operator.
Steve Bracknall, Assistant Manager, Royal Oak FC, added: “Our striker Tommy works at Gripple, so when we were on the lookout for a new sponsor who shared our values, partnering with a Sheffield born and bred business, like Gripple, just made sense. And the fact that our kit is being manufactured right here in Sheffield means a lot too, not just me, but to my whole team. This partnership truly creates a certain feel of pride and unity that, as a city, we’re together as one.”
Joe Farrah, Gripple Sales Director for the UK & Ireland , said: “Gripple has always been proud of its Sheffield roots – it’s in our DNA. So, when the opportunity came up to sponsor Steve and the Royal Oak lads, we didn’t hesitate. Steve represents everything we love about this city: passion, graft, and not taking yourself too seriously. We share that same attitude at Gripple. We’re excited to get behind Steve and Tommy as they lead the Royal Oak lads to glory this season.”
The new Royal Oak FC shirts, proudly featuring Gripple branding, will debut at a special pop-up event at Meadowhall on Thursday 28 and Friday 29 August 2025. Fans can pick up official merchandise, meet the team, and chat with Steve Bracknall in-person.
Fans are urged to keep an eye on Steve’s channels, where Gripple will be making a few appearances as this brilliant Sheffield partnership plays out.
Get involved, show your support and follow our journey here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNn8PYFK8bk/
Instagram: @stevebracknall / @grippleltd
TikTok: @stevebracknall / @grippleltd
