Manchester United Secures Groundbreaking Jersey Partnership with Qualcomm

Manchester United Signs New Sponsorship Agreement with Qualcomm

Manchester United, one of the most iconic soccer clubs in the world, has recently announced a new sponsorship agreement with Qualcomm, the technology company known for its Snapdragon brand. This agreement will see the Snapdragon logo adorn the front of Manchester United’s jerseys, replacing TeamViewer, starting from the 2024-25 season. While the exact terms of the contract remain undisclosed, insiders familiar with the agreement have stated that it is the largest jersey deal in soccer, with an estimated worth of at least $80 million per year.

This sponsorship deal marks a significant shift for Manchester United, as it replaces its previous agreement with TeamViewer, a German business software company. Under the terms of the new deal, Qualcomm‘s Snapdragon brand will feature prominently on both the men’s and women’s team home, away, and third kits.

Qualcomm and Their Snapdragon Brand

One of the major players in the technology industry, Qualcomm is best known for its Snapdragon processors, which power a wide range of devices such as smartphones, PCs, gaming devices, and wearables. This partnership with Manchester United serves as a testament to the company’s commitment to sports marketing and its desire to align its brand with a global sporting powerhouse.

Financial Implications and Significance

The financial implications of this sponsorship agreement are staggering, not only for Manchester United but also for the broader soccer industry. With an estimated value of $80 million per year, this deal surpasses Real Madrid’s current agreement with Emirates, which is worth approximately $75 million annually. Additionally, it exceeds the $80 million per year paid by General Motors before TeamViewer became Manchester United’s sponsor.

For Manchester United, commercial revenue is a vital component of its financial model. Last year, commercial revenue accounted for 44% of the club’s total income, providing the necessary funds to invest in players and comply with financial fair play regulations. Therefore, securing such a lucrative sponsorship deal is crucial for the club to maintain its success on and off the field.

The Glazer Family and Potential Club Sale

While Manchester United celebrates this new partnership, there are still ongoing discussions regarding the potential sale of the club. The Glazer family, who currently own the club, has received bids from interested parties, including Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, with offers exceeding $6 billion. However, there have been no recent updates from the Glazer family on the progress of the sale process.

Manchester United’s Valuation and Global Status

Regardless of the club’s potential sale, Manchester United remains the most valuable soccer club globally, with a current valuation of $5.95 billion, as estimated by Sportico in January. This valuation places them ahead of other soccer giants such as Real Madrid and Barcelona. The club’s ability to secure high-value sponsorship deals, such as the one with Qualcomm, further solidifies its status as a global sporting brand.

In conclusion, Manchester United’s new sponsorship agreement with Qualcomm and the inclusion of the Snapdragon brand on the team’s jerseys represents a watershed moment in the world of soccer sponsorships. With a record-breaking financial payout, the deal underscores the commercial significance of the sport and the enduring appeal of Manchester United as a global brand.