FedEx to be main UEFA Europa League sponsor

UEFA today announced that FedEx will become the official main sponsor of the UEFA Europa League. The sponsorship will commence in the 2015/16 season and will run through to, and include, the 2018 UEFA Europa League final.

Sponsorship of the UEFA Europa League, which each season features 192 teams from 54 nations, will provide FedEx with a unique opportunity for worldwide brand visibility. The competition is broadcast in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide, enjoying an average matchweek audience of 69 million throughout the campaign.

As main sponsor, FedEx, with its extensive network of courier and logistics operations, will be able to draw upon this global reach to engage its customers and employees around the world in the excitement of the UEFA Europa League.

Commenting on the announcement, Guy-Laurent Epstein, marketing director of UEFA Events SA, said: "Having such a recognisable and established brand as FedEx as the main sponsor will only help to maintain the growth in popularity of the competition among fans, clubs and players globally. We look forward to collaborating with FedEx."

Andrew Self, FedEx's vice-president marketing and communications, added: "The UEFA Europa League is an elite competition based on a foundation of grassroots football. It has a great mix of famous clubs and local teams, and reflects the genuine passion of fans across Europe and the globe. It is a great way for us to reinforce the commitment and passion that our employees demonstrate every day."

From the start of the 2015/16 UEFA Europa League season, UEFA is implementing a fully centralised marketing approach that includes use of static stadium boards from the group stage, and LED perimeter boards at all stadiums from the round of 16 onwards. The announcement of a main sponsor reflects the advancements made to the commercial structure, which, alongside this main sponsor, will involve official sponsors and adidas as the official supplier to the competition.

In addition to pitch-side visibility, ticketing and hospitality opportunities at all matches played throughout Europe, the agreement with FedEx also entails digital and social media content opportunities, and use of the UEFA Europa League brand assets, including the iconic trophy.

The UEFA Europa League final represents the culmination to each campaign of the three-year agreement, and FedEx will benefit from exclusive sponsorship rights to this high-profile, one-off match that will determine the winner of one of the most prestigious and sought-after trophies in European football every season.