October 5: Visa has extended its partnership with the Asian Football Confederation to the club game, taking rights to the AFC Champions League Elite, Champions League Two and Women’s Champions League for the 2026-29 cycle.
The payments group becomes an Official Global Partner and global payment services partner in all three competitions, expanding a relationship that already covers the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2027 and its U-23 counterpart earlier this year, both in Saudi Arabia.
AFC Secretary General Datuk Seri Windsor John said: “As one of the most trusted brands in the world, Visa offers an unparalleled payment experience that will increase convenience and security for football fans across Asia.
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to deliver world-class club competitions and deepen our engagement with our fans, particularly as we fuel the exciting growth of AFC club competitions.”
The addition of the Women’s Champions League is significant as the AFC continues its efforts to build the commercial value of the competition alongside its men’s tournaments.
Tarek Abdalla, Marketing Director for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa at Visa, said: “Visa’s partnership with the AFC reflects our belief in the power of sport to connect people, communities and economies.
“As Asia’s top club competitions continue to grow in reach and influence, we are proud to bring our global expertise in payment services to help create safer and more rewarding experiences for fans. From facilitating access to tickets to supporting memorable match moments, this partnership is another way Visa is helping fans get closer to the game while supporting the continued growth of men’s and women’s soccer in the region”.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at (email protected)
