https://arab.news/g8r9s
- Deal aims to enhance airline’s presence in global sports
- Also aims to. support Concacaf’s national and club competitions across the Americas
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air has secured a multi-year agreement to become the official airline partner of Concacaf, the FIFA Confederation for North, Central America, and the Caribbean.
The deal aims to enhance the airline’s presence in global sports and support Concacaf’s national and club competitions across the Americas.
Under the partnership, the Public Investment Fund-owned carrier will be involved in Concacaf’s men, women, and youth football events, reinforcing its role in the football community.
The collaboration supports Riyadh Air’s goal of enhancing connectivity and contributing to football’s development. It also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader ambitions, including its bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034, further establishing the Kingdom’s prominence in global sports and beyond.
Osamah Al-Nuaiser, senior vice president of marketing and corporate Communications at Riyadh Air, said: “Our partnership with Concacaf will bring passionate football fans closer to thrilling games and action in countries and territories in the Concacaf region.”
He also underscored the airline’s commitment to supporting football through its partnership with Concacaf. As the “Official Airline Partner,” the airline emphasizes its role in promoting and advancing the sport’s growth.
The partnership increases the national carrier’s visibility and supports its goal of enhancing travel experiences through digital integration. It also expands Riyadh Air’s involvement in football, building on its earlier sponsorship with Athlético de Madrid, announced in August 2023.
“This partnership with Riyadh Air marks an exciting new chapter for Concacaf. Their global vision will support us in elevating all aspects of football in Concacaf, from grassroots programs to our world-class tournaments,” said Philippe Moggio, general secretary of Concacaf.
He continued: “We are excited about the opportunities this partnership will create, connecting fans across continents and inspiring them to passionately follow the beautiful game.”
The Saudi carrier is set to begin operations in 2025 and plans to serve over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, aiming to enhance Saudi Arabia’s role as a key global travel hub.
Riyadh Air’s deal with Concacaf follows the announcement of the governing body’s multi-year partnership with PIF signed on Aug. 15. This agreement aimed to enhance football across North and Central America and the Caribbean.
The partnership will support football development at all levels and improve Concacaf’s tournaments for men, women, and youth.
It aligns with major upcoming events, including the Concacaf Champions Cups, the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US.
The agreement emphasizes strengthening football development initiatives and expanding access to the sport for youth across all 41 Concacaf member federations.