Barcelona and Rakuten

About

Barcelona y Rakuten is a groundbreaking sponsorship deal that has revolutionized the world of sports marketing. The agreement, signed in 2018, saw Rakuten become the new main sponsor of FC Barcelona, one of the most successful and beloved football clubs in the world. This partnership marked a significant shift in the way sports teams and brands collaborate, as Rakuten became the first Asian company to secure a major sponsorship deal with a European football club of such stature. Through this partnership, Rakuten has gained unparalleled access to Barcelona's global fan base, estimated to be over 500 million people worldwide. The deal has also enabled the Japanese e-commerce giant to tap into the club's extensive network of marketing channels, including social media, digital advertising, and on-site activations. In return, Barcelona has benefited from Rakuten's expertise in e-commerce and digital innovation, which has helped the club to enhance its fan engagement and revenue streams. The partnership has been hailed as a model for future collaborations between sports teams and brands, and has paved the way for new and innovative ways of connecting with fans and customers.