Rakuten, the Japanese e-commerce giant, made headlines in 2017 when they became the main sponsor of FC Barcelona. The deal was reported to be one of the largest in football history, but how much did Rakuten actually pay Barcelona? Let’s dive into the details.
The Partnership Deal
In November 2016, Rakuten signed a four-year sponsorship agreement with FC Barcelona. This partnership meant that Rakuten would become the main global partner and official sponsor of the club starting from the 2017-2018 season.
As part of the deal, Rakuten’s logo would appear on the front of Barcelona’s jerseys, replacing Qatar Airways who had been their previous sponsor. The agreement also included various marketing rights and promotional activities for both parties.
The Financial Terms
The exact amount that Rakuten paid Barcelona for this sponsorship deal was not officially disclosed. However, reports suggest that it was worth around €55 million per year, making it one of the most lucrative sponsorship deals in football.
It is important to note that this figure is an estimate and may not be entirely accurate.
Additional Benefits
- In addition to the financial aspect, this partnership provided several benefits for both Rakuten and Barcelona.
- Rakuten gained global exposure through their logo being displayed on one of the most prestigious football clubs’ jerseys.
- Barcelona received a substantial financial boost through this sponsorship deal, helping them fund player transfers and improve their infrastructure.
- The partnership also allowed both parties to collaborate on various marketing initiatives, expanding their brand reach and engaging with fans worldwide.
Conclusion
Rakuten’s sponsorship of FC Barcelona was a significant milestone for both parties. While the exact amount paid by Rakuten is not publicly known, it is estimated to be around €55 million per year. This partnership not only brought financial benefits but also provided global exposure and marketing opportunities for both Rakuten and Barcelona.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on available sources and may not be entirely accurate. Please refer to official announcements for the most up-to-date information.