NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. — Johnson & Johnson has entered an agreement to become a global sponsor of the 2014 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament in Brazil.

The health care products giant said Thursday that with the pact it became the eighth and final FIFA World Cup sponsor.

Through the sponsorship, J&J will be the exclusive and Official Healthcare Sponsor, with the ability to activate across its consumer, medical devices and diagnostics, and pharmaceutical businesses, according to the company. Also, J&J will receive exclusive global marketing rights related to the FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013 and 2014 FIFA World Cup.

"The FIFA World Cup unites people of all cultures, ages and socioeconomic levels like no other event, and we’re excited to tap into this passion and reach to further impact health and wellness around the world," commented Brian Perkins, corporate vice president, corporate affairs, at J&J. "Through this sponsorship, the company will be able to reach new professionals and consumers and deepen our commitment and connection to the people and communities we serve."

J&J said that via its engagement with the FIFA World Cup, the company will provide access to its broad range of products and services — including vision, oral, sun, skin and wound care products — and encourage healthier lifestyles for soccer fans worldwide

"Having a global, broadly based and trusted company like Johnson & Johnson as a FIFA World Cup sponsor is a great asset for FIFA, and we are honored to welcome them on board," stated Thierry Weil, FIFA marketing director.

J&J added that Brazil represents a key emerging market for the company, providing a wide range of consumer products, medical devices and diagnostics, and pharmaceuticals.

"Johnson & Johnson has a longstanding history of serving the people and communities of Brazil, and we are thrilled by the opportunity to support the World Cup in Brazil and share in the pride of this spectacular event," remarked Maria Eduarda Kertesz, Brazil’s managing director for Johnson & Johnson consumer brands. "Given the inherent passion Brazilians have for the sport, we hope to leverage this sponsorship to support the communities in which we live and work and improve Brazilian quality of life."