Emirates Airline and S.L. Benfica have announced a significant extension of their partnership, extending their collaboration for another five seasons until 2029. This marks a major milestone in a relationship that has flourished for over a decade, built on shared values of excellence and ambition.
The partnership, which began in 2014 with Emirates becoming Benfica’s Official Airline Partner, has seen the airline’s branding prominently displayed on the club’s iconic red jerseys since 2015. This latest agreement, the longest and most significant in Benfica’s history, further solidifies the partnership, with the updated ‘Fly Better’ branding featured on the kits. This branding signifies the shared ambition of both Emirates and Benfica to reach new heights.
Boutros Boutros, Executive Vice President of Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand at Emirates, expressed his enthusiasm for the extended partnership, stating: “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.”
S.L. Benfica, a powerhouse in Portuguese football, boasts a rich history of achievements, including 86 major trophies and consecutive European Cup wins. With a dedicated fanbase exceeding 50 million supporters, 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, a gathering place for fans worldwide, serves as a testament to the club’s enduring legacy.
Rui Costa, president of S.L. Benfica, echoed the excitement surrounding the partnership renewal, stating: “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Emirates, a brand that epitomizes excellence and ambition. 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, known for its extensive sponsorship portfolio, partners with prestigious European football clubs including Arsenal, AC Milan, and Real Madrid. Their support extends beyond football, encompassing 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. The renewed partnership aims to enhance the fan experience through collaborative efforts.
Emirates operates 14 flights per week to Lisbon, showcasing its substantial commitment to Portugal. Since launching operations in Portugal over a decade ago, the airline has transported over 2.6 million passengers, fostering trade and tourism links between the UAE, Portugal, and beyond. In addition to its partnership with Benfica, Emirates sponsors the Millennium Estoril Open, reflecting its involvement in over 60 ATP tennis events worldwide.
