Visa will continue its longstanding partnership with FIFA following a 7 May announcement it will become an official partner of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup this summer.
The global payments company intends to “amplify the fan experience” through a series of fan engagement programs for spectators in-stadium and watching from home.
Held in the US from 14 June – 13 July 2025, the Visa partnership will also serve to boost the engagement for the Club World Cup in its new format, which was expanded from seven to 32 teams.
The new competition will also be held every four years, with clubs from each of FIFA’s six confederations competing.
Frank Cooper III, Chief Marketing Officer at Visa added: “This addition to our partnership with FIFA underscores Visa’s commitment to football at every level, from grassroots to the grandest stages. We’re excited to take part in this groundbreaking tournament and to bring new experiences to our clients, cardholders and fans alike.”
Visa has sponsored and been an official partner of FIFA competitions in the past, such as the FIFA World Cup and FIFA Women’s World Cup. It has also supported various FIFA youth, futsal, beach soccer and esport competitions.
Sponsorship struggles
Bringing a longtime partner like Visa onboard for the Club World Cup will come as a relief for FIFA who had been battling with other storied partners to gain support for the new competition.
Reports surfaced in late October 2024 that Coca-Cola and Adidas were taking legal action against FIFA as it was believed by both parties they should have Club World Cup sponsorship rights included within their pre-existing contracts with FIFA.
The Guardian revealed both Coca-Cola and Adidas felt the global football governing body was prioritising other sources of revenue from different companies and sectors. However, at the time of the dispute, FIFA had only registered one sponsor for the Club World Cup.
Adidas and Coca-Cola resolved the dispute to become official sponsors of the competition this summer, joining the likes of Bank of America, the Saudi Public Investment Fund, and now Visa.
“As a partner, Visa has played a standout role in growing the global game, and we’re excited to have them with us as the kick-off of this historic competition approaches,” added Chief Business Officer at FIFA, Romy Gai.
“The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will transform the global club landscape. With the unsurpassed scale of Visa and its commitment to innovation, we’re proud to welcome another powerhouse brand that is perfectly aligned with the bold vision of this tournament.”
