American Airlines announced today that it is becoming the official airline of U.S. Soccer as part of a multi-year deal. U.S. Soccer, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is the official governing body of the sport in the United States. Note that this is a different organization from Major League Soccer (MLS) which is the primary professional soccer league in the United States.
As part of the program, American Airlines and U.S. Soccer have created some exclusive perks for American AAdvantage loyalty program members as well as curated matchday moments for fans. These include:
- Match ball presentations as part of Matchday Check-In;
- Behind-the-scenes player access;
- Flyaway trips for U.S. Soccer Insiders and AAdvantage members;
- Premium hospitality experiences at a number of marquee matches each year via the U.S. Soccer Insiders Lounge Delivered by American Airlines.
Caroline Clayton, Chief Marketing Officer at American Airlines, said this about the partnership:
“The numbers speak for themselves as we see soccer participation and fandom in the United States continue to soar. Whether you’re an avid or casual follower of the sport, the gameday energy at any National Team match is something you’ll never forget and, in becoming the Official Airline of U.S. Soccer, American is eager to take that energy to new heights for our customers across the country. We’re looking forward to creating memories that last a lifetime for current and future fans, as well as players at every level of the game.”
David Wright, Chief Commercial Officer for U.S. Soccer, added:
“American Airlines brings a powerful combination of global reach, innovation and shared values to the table. As the fans that follow our teams and those who work in service to soccer travel the world, American Airlines will help them reach their destinations and elevate the fan experience. Their commitment to the matchday experience aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of soccer in the U.S. where we aim to ignite a national passion for the game, and we’re excited to build something extraordinary together.”
In addition to the matchday activations, American will provide exclusive opportunities for U.S. Soccer Insiders and AAdvantage members with travel incentives and the chance to redeem miles for unforgettable soccer moments.
American’s partnership will also include sponsorship of a digital content series that will showcase U.S. Soccer’s most passionate fans and players through authentic, behind-the-scenes content which will air across U.S. Soccer’s social platforms throughout the year. Programming will also include in-stadium takeover moments and activations at U.S. Soccer’s tentpole matches, including a title match focused on community impact.
Summary
American Airlines is now the official airline of U.S. Soccer. The partnership between the Fort Worth based carrier and the official governing body for soccer in the United States will include matchday activations, special behind the scenes experiences, and a digital content series as part of a muti-year deal.
