The official governing body of soccer in the United States, US Soccer has signed a partnership extension with an American multinational financial services corporation, Visa.
Through 2028, this agreement will keep the company as the exclusive payment services partner to the American men’s and women’s national football teams while also offering cardholders certain perks. By extending its previous push for parity, the extension promises yet again that the Women’s National Team and women’s football projects will receive at least 50% of Visa’s investment in football programming.
Mary Ann Reilly, Chief Marketing Officer of North America, Visa, said, “Soccer’s popularity in the United States continues to surge and we are committed to working with U.S. Soccer to elevate the beautiful game for the athletes and the soccer community. Beyond creating seamless digital payment experiences or getting cardholders closer to the action, we are focusing on advancing parity in soccer to future-proof the game.”
Visa and U.S. Soccer will collaborate to develop new opportunities for supporters, notably new backstage encounters at specific USMNT and USWNT matches that will give supporters unheard-of behind-the-scenes access. Moreover, as the presenter of the U.S. Soccer Mobile Fan Studio, Visa will also assist in bringing additional programming, such as meet-and-greets, pre-game chalk talks, exclusive merchandise, product customisation, and other aspects that will allow fans to get closer to their favourite players and teams.
U.S. Soccer Chief Commercial Officer David Wright, said, “We’re excited to continue and expand our long-standing partnership with Visa as we head into a pivotal moment in time for soccer in the United States. Visa’s commitment to advance the sport while advocating for equality has and will continue to be front and centre for many years to come.”
The partnership between U.S. Soccer and Visa continues to develop in order to offer improved fan experiences at events and activities involving the U.S. National Team, such as the SheBelieves Cup, presenting partner of the U.S. Soccer mobile fan studio, special hospitality backstage experiences, free jersey customization offer and visa cardholder ticket presale.
For many years, Visa has advocated for equality, openness, and developing deep bonds with athletes and the American soccer community. Visa will step up its attempts to support women for the forthcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.