Wednesday, August 14, 2024 Emirates Airline and S.L. Benfica have confirmed the extension of their partnership for another five seasons, pushing their collaboration through to 2029.
This extension signifies a major step forward in their relationship, which has flourished for over a decade due to their mutual dedication to excellence. Emirates became Benfica’s Official Airline Partner in 2014, and a year later, the partnership grew stronger as the airline’s iconic branding was showcased prominently on Benfica’s red jerseys. This latest agreement, the longest and most significant in Benfica’s history, will continue with a renewed focus, featuring the updated “Fly Better” branding on the kits, representing both the airline and the club’s shared ambition to achieve new heights.
Boutros Boutros, Executive Vice President of Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand at Emirates said : “We see the extension of our partnership with Benfica as an opportunity to take the fan experience of the club’s passionate supporters in Portugal and around the world to a new level, as we grow and deepen our association with one of the most successful clubs in European football history. It’s also about our investment in Portugal, an integral part of our European network and a destination we’ve been serving for over 10 years, and this partnership illustrates our long-term commitment to the country.” Sport Lisboa e Benfica, renowned for its historic accomplishments and dedicated fan base of over 50 million supporters, remains a powerhouse in Portuguese football.
Boasting 86 major trophies, including consecutive European Cup wins, the club is a regular contender in the UEFA Champions League and is set to compete in the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. The iconic Estádio da Luz serves as a gathering place for fans worldwide, coming together to support the Águias. “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Emirates, a brand that epitomizes excellence and ambition,” said Rui Costa, president of SL Benfica .
“This renewal is a testament to the success of our collaboration over the past years and our shared vision for the future. Together, we will continue to soar and achieve even greater success.” Emirates boasts an extensive sponsorship portfolio, partnering with prestigious European football clubs such as Arsenal, AC Milan, and Real Madrid, alongside prominent associations in sailing, rugby, tennis, and golf.
As Benfica’s Official Airline Sponsor since the 2015/16 season, Emirates has consistently supported the club, with the ‘Fly Better’ logo becoming a hallmark of Benfica’s distinguished kit. This renewed partnership aims to enhance the fan experience through collaborative efforts. Emirates operates 14 flights per week to Lisbon, demonstrating a substantial commitment to Portugal.
The airline has transported over 2.6 million passengers since launching its operations in Portugal, strengthening trade and tourism links between the UAE, Portugal, and beyond. In addition to its partnership with Benfica, Emirates also sponsors the Millennium Estoril Open as part of its involvement in over 60 ATP tennis events worldwide.
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