Mumbai City FC (MCFC), the defending Indian Super League (ISL) champions, have inked a multi-year sponsorship agreement with Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates.
As part of the deal, the brand has been named the club’s official front-of-shirt sponsor, starting from the upcoming season.
The decision reflects Etihad’s relentless dedication to the Indian market, as well as MCFC’s status as one of India’s best-performing professional sports clubs, having won two ISL Shields and two ISL Cups.
The agreement, which is a record in Indian football in terms of duration, falls in conjunction with Etihad Airways’ 20th anniversary of flights to India. Starting from the 2024–25 season, the logo of Etihad Airways will be prominently displayed on the front of Mumbai City FC’s first-team and youth match outfits as well as their training kits.
The collaboration strengthens the long-standing ties between the two organisations’ home nations and upholds the ideals of excellence and teamwork.
Kandarp Chandra, CEO of Mumbai City FC, commented, “We are incredibly happy to bring Etihad on board as our Official Front of Shirt Sponsor. Their endorsement is a testament to the brand of football Mumbai City plays – one that is committed to performance and the pursuit of excellence on and off the field. Both Etihad and Mumbai City are proud to represent resilient global cities that balance tradition with modernity.”
Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, said, “We strive to enrich our presence in the Indian market through relevant and meaningful partnerships, and we’re thrilled to welcome Mumbai City FC to the Etihad family. India continues to be a strategically important market for Etihad and we remain committed to serving the Indian community with convenient connections from 11 destinations across India to the Middle East, Europe and North America. Through our partnership with Mumbai City FC, we hope to bring joy to the football-loving community across Mumbai.”
Etihad Airways will commemorate 20 years of flying to India this month, and from September 1 onwards, the airline’s A380 has begun flying between Mumbai and Abu Dhabi to underscore its commitment to expansion in India. Moreover, guests will be able to experience the world-renowned superjumbo on this popular route for four months.
The airline serves 11 cities in India, including flights to Mumbai four times per day. Etihad also provides 175 flights each week between Abu Dhabi and India.
In August, the club also added UpUrFit and Fast&Up to its commercial portfolio.
Mumbai City FC will begin their 2024-25 campaign against Mohun Bagan Super Giant on September 13 at 7:30 PM IST.