In a strategic move to enhance fan experience and extend its reach within the digital payment landscape, Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has inked a lucrative three-year sponsorship agreement with peer-to-peer payment provider, Zelle.
Under this groundbreaking partnership, Zelle will serve as the presenting partner of LAFC’s loyalty program and will also claim sponsorship rights over a premium guest entrance at BMO Stadium, located on the venue’s south side, aptly named the Zelle Grand Lobby.
Negotiated directly between Zelle representatives and LAFC’s Senior Director of Global Partnership Sales, Terry Tsouratakis, and Director of Global Partnerships, Nathan Schlatter, this collaboration marks a significant milestone for both entities. Notably, Zelle becomes the ninth partner to join LAFC’s esteemed “Golden Boot” tier of sponsors.
As the designated peer-to-peer payment provider for LAFC, Zelle will enjoy prominent signage placement throughout BMO Stadium. Encouraging fans to “Settle up in the 70th,” Zelle aims to facilitate seamless transactions for fans to reimburse friends and family using their platform when concession stands close during the 70th minute of matches.
Beyond stadium branding, Zelle’s commitment to community engagement will see the brand collaborate with LAFC on a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program focused on supporting education initiatives for the Latino community.
This partnership marks a significant milestone for LAFC as Zelle becomes its first domestic partner in the peer-to-peer payment category. Alongside esteemed partners such as stadium naming-rights holder BMO, payment processor Shift4, and payroll software company Paycom, Zelle’s addition reinforces LAFC’s commitment to innovation and excellence both on and off the field.
Launched in 2017, Zelle has rapidly emerged as a formidable competitor to established payment apps like Venmo and Cash App. Operated by Early Warning Services, a consortium owned by major financial institutions including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and Wells Fargo, Zelle’s partnership with LAFC signals its foray into team-level sponsorships within the sports industry.
In addition to its collaboration with LAFC, Zelle also boasts sponsorship ties with The Basketball Tournament, further solidifying its presence within the realm of sports sponsorship.
With this landmark partnership, LAFC and Zelle are poised to revolutionize the fan experience and set new standards for innovation in sports sponsorship, underscoring the transformative power of strategic collaborations in the digital age.