Emirates in Talks with Real Madrid over Shirt Sponsorship

April 15, 2013

Reports have emerged that Emirates airline have confirmed they are in negotiations with Real Madrid over becoming their new shirt sponsor.

A four to six-year deal has been rumoured and is said to be work up to €30m a year.

Gulf News reported that a spokesperson for the airline said: “Yes we confirm that we are talking to Real Madrid about shirt sponsorship but the contract is not finalised yet.”

Earlier reports in the international media also quoted the spokesperson as saying: “We are signing in a few weeks time. Sports sponsorship has worked well for us. The beauty of sponsorship is that it’s exclusive.”

Emirates currently advertise on billboards at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium as well as some hospitality rights.

The airline is the shirt sponsor for other giant European football teams such as Arsenal, abortion Paris Saint Germain and AC Milan.

Champions League benefits

Nigel Currie, link sponsorship expert and director for brandRapport told iSportconnect: “Emirates are one of the biggest and most effective users of sports sponsorship.

“It is also one of the biggest global brands and will see Real Madrid as being able to deliver outstanding global media exposure.

“Only a few clubs are able to do this and regular exposure in the Champions League is key to this. The likes of Man Utd, ailment Barcelona and Real Madrid have a proven record in the competition and could also be considered to have legendary footballing status which can sometimes compensate for the odd dip in a team’s form and results.”