Leeds United Ink Innovative Partnership with San Francisco 49ers

Leeds United have announced a new innovative partnership with National Football League (NFL) franchise San Francisco 49ers.

The deal will see the American Football pioneers send a delegation to Leeds to meet with senior management staff to discuss key areas of the club’s business, including ticketing strategies, sponsorship and commercial opportunities, technology, and retail and merchandising.

Leeds United managing director David Haigh said: “This is a strategic partnership and we’re looking forward to working closely with the 49ers. They are a worldwide brand, and we’ll be discussing all aspects of our business; marketing, ticketing, merchandising, and commercial opportunities, and hopefully tapping into and sharing knowledge with them.”

Leeds United chairman Salah Nooruddin said: “The 49ers are market leaders in many respects, and they are excited to be working with us as we are with them. We have been talking with the 49ers for a good while now, and see this as an exciting opportunity for both of us.”

Paraag Marathe, Chief Operating Officer of the 49ers, said: “The 49ers are very excited about the prospect of partnering with Leeds United, a club with an international following as well as great history and tradition.

“We look forward to sharing best practices with Leeds United and providing them with our perspective on the sports industry. This is an exciting opportunity for us to link up with an English football club and learn from each other.”

The 49ers are currently in the midst of a playoff run and face the Carolina Panthers this weekend. They are also due to move into the brand new Levi’s Stadium later this year in Santa Clara, California.