Emirates extends partnership with AC Milan in one of football’s longest alliances
Partnership to include youth academy support and international fan activations
DUBAI – Emirates and AC Milan have announced the extension of their long-standing partnership, reinforcing one of football’s most enduring and successful collaborations.
The renewal ensures Emirates remains the Principal Partner, Official Airline Partner, and Official Men’s Jersey Partner of the Italian giants, continuing a legacy that spans nearly two decades.
The world’s largest international airline will retain its signature ‘Fly Better’ logo across the front of AC Milan’s Men’s First Team shirts in all major competitions – including Serie A, Coppa Italia, UEFA and FIFA fixtures, and international friendlies. The partnership will also extend to the club’s Academy youth players, further nurturing future footballing talent and inspiring young athletes from local academies to global stages.
What does the renewal include?
As part of the agreement, Emirates will benefit from a comprehensive set of activation rights, including prominent LED branding in stadiums and training centres during home matches. The deal also incorporates exclusive digital content, global fan engagement initiatives, and premium hospitality access.
Fans can expect immersive experiences such as international watch parties hosted at select global locations – reinforcing both brands’ mission to connect people through shared passion and excellence.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, said: “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with AC Milan. This collaboration, built on shared values and a mutual commitment to excellence, has created unforgettable experiences for millions of fans worldwide. Our deep-rooted relationship with Italy makes this extension a natural next step, as we continue to connect Milan and other Italian cities to the world through Dubai, while bringing Rossoneri fans across our global network closer to their favourite club and players.”
How has the partnership evolved?
Maikel Oettle, Chief Commercial Officer of AC Milan, added: “The renewal of our partnership with Emirates stands as testimony to one of the most historic and admired collaborations in football, a shared journey that looks to the future with ambition and vision. Emirates will continue to stand by our side, helping us strengthen the Club’s solid foundations and, together, connect new generations of fans around the world while creating unique experiences that go far beyond the pitch.”
Emirates first partnered with AC Milan in September 2007, later becoming Top Institutional Sponsor in 2008 and Official Jersey Sponsor in the 2010/2011 season. To celebrate the club’s 125th anniversary, Emirates unveiled a special A380 livery last year featuring AC Milan’s crest and colours, symbolising the depth of their shared legacy.
Emirates and global football
This renewal further cements Emirates’ reputation as a leader in global sports sponsorships. The airline maintains partnerships with top-tier European clubs including Real Madrid, Arsenal FC, Benfica SL, and Olympique Lyonnais. From the 2025-26 season, Emirates will also become the Platinum Partner of FC Bayern Munich through to 2031-32.
Emirates has been Title Partner of The Emirates FA Cup for nearly a decade and remains a key supporter of the UAE Pro League. The airline’s branding will also appear on the sleeve and back of Al Ain FC’s training jerseys during the 2025–26 season.
Meanwhile, AC Milan continues to expand its international presence, with its new Dubai office serving as a regional hub for commercial and communication strategies across the Middle East – a region with a rapidly growing football fanbase.