Sports sponsorship is big business, and for global airlines, it is an effective way to build brand awareness, particularly when establishing new markets and routes. In all its forms, football attracts eyes globally, so it is no surprise to learn that Qatar Airways has inked a deal to become the official airline partner of the UEFA Champions League, the pinnacle competition of European football.

Qatar adds more to existing EUFA partnerships

On September 19, 2024, in Doha, Qatar Airways strengthened its European presence by announcing a partnership with the UEFA Champions League that runs until 2030. The airline, which is on a mission to unite people through the power of sport, is building on the success of sponsoring the UEFA EURO 2020 and UEFA EURO 2024 competitions.

To get the ball rolling, Qatar Airways has launched a special campaign video featuring Brazilian football legend Ricardo Kaka as the pilot with English legend Rio Ferdinand in the airline’s celebrated Business Class Qsuite. It also features appearances from Paris Saint Germain Féminines football star Sakina Karchaoui, content creator OussiFooty and football journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The new agreement includes sponsorship rights to the UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Youth League and UEFA Futsal Champions League. It also extends certain rights to Qatar Duty Free, Hamad International Airport and Qatar Privilege Club, building a comprehensive Qatar Airways Group alignment with UEFA (Union of European Football Associations).

Photo: Arseniy Shemyakin Photo | Shutterstock

Qatar Airways now has an impressive array of football partnerships spanning FIFA (International Federation of Association Football), UEFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). These sponsorships include the pinnacle of national team and club football competitions, showcasing Qatar Airway’s commitment to the global football community.

A good deal for Champions League fans

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said the airline is thrilled to join forces with UEFA, and as the Official Airline Partner of the UEFA Champions League, it is dedicated to transporting thousands of football fans to this esteemed competition.

“Our partnership with the UEFA Champions League not only strengthens our connection with Europe but also aligns perfectly with our vision of fostering unity and celebrating excellence. This partnership highlights our commitment to connecting people worldwide through our network of over 170 destinations while supporting this remarkable competition.”

Qatar Airways is all about transporting thousands of people, and according to ch-aviation, it has a fleet of 267 aircraft at its disposal. The fleet is a mix of Airbus and Boeing jets, including 28 Boeing 777-200F freighters for Qatar Airways Cargo and nine aircraft operating on wet-lease arrangements.

Photo: Bradley Caslin | Shutterstock

The data shows that Qatar Airways’ passenger fleet includes 109 Airbus aircraft, including 29 A320-200s, four A330-200s, eight A330-300s, 24 A350-1000s, 34 A350-900s and 10 A380-800s. There are 121 Boeing passenger jets, including nine 737 MAX 8s, seven 777-200LRs, 57 777-300ERs, 30 787-8 and 18 787-9 Dreamliners.

To celebrate the expanded partnership, the Qatar Airways Privilege Club will offer UEFA Champions League fans discounts of up to 12% on flight fares and exclusive ticket promotions. They will also have access to exclusive promotions and bespoke travel solutions, including travel packages designed to celebrate the spirit of sport.