FIFA has signed off on a major commercial partnership ahead of the 2026 World Cup, making Bank of America the official bank sponsor of the tournament.
The investment bank and financial service’s partnership with the global football tournament has a multi-dynamic focus. Specifically, BoA hopes to complement its global and local market strategies via the partnership.
By partnering with FIFA, the firm aims to engage its global audience. This should prove fruitful, as the World Cup is the world’s most widely viewed sporting event, with audiences coming from across the globe’s five populated continents.
“We are extremely excited to welcome Bank of America as a global sponsor of this groundbreaking FIFA World Cup,” said Gianni Infantino, FIFA President.
“Bank of America’s commitment to community engagement both domestically and globally aligns with our goals for the tournament and beyond, while their support of FIFA on an international basis is a major milestone for our organisation as we continue to serve our game for the benefit of the entire world.”
The 2026 World Cup takes place across North America, with the US, Canada and Mexico sharing hosting duties. 11 US cities will host the tournament, alongside two Canadian ones and three Mexican ones.
Bank of America, as its name suggests, is a US-based institution but operates globally, with its global banking division representing a significant segment. The company’s arrangement with FIFA is also global in nature, as the firm seeks to leverage the opportunity to further connect with communities.
The arrangement also comes at a time whe Bank of America is seeking to increase its in-house innovation, particularly around financial technologies. The Bank moved quickly earlier this year to capitalise on the launch of Bitcion ETFs, via its Merryl Lynch holding.
“Football connects the world like no other sport,” added Brian Moynihan, Bank of America’s Chair and CEO.
“FIFA World Cup 26 is a tremendous opportunity to celebrate the pursuit of excellence and how we deliver for our clients, teammates and the communities we serve across the US and around the world.”
