Qatar Airways has been a prominent sponsor of FC Barcelona for several years, but there came a point in time when this partnership came to an end. Let’s delve into the details of when Qatar Airways stopped sponsoring Barcelona and the implications it had on both parties.
The Beginning of the Partnership
The relationship between Qatar Airways and FC Barcelona started back in 2013 when the airline became the main shirt sponsor for the renowned football club. This sponsorship deal was a significant milestone for both entities, as it allowed Qatar Airways to gain exposure on one of the biggest stages in football, while Barcelona received substantial financial support.
Years of Successful Collaboration
For several years, Barcelona proudly displayed the Qatar Airways logo on their jerseys. This partnership not only provided financial benefits to the club but also helped Qatar Airways increase its brand visibility globally. The collaboration proved fruitful as Barcelona achieved numerous successes during this period, winning various domestic and international trophies.
The End of an Era
However, in 2017, there was an unexpected turn of events. It was announced that Qatar Airways would no longer be the shirt sponsor for FC Barcelona after their contract expired in June 2017. This news came as a surprise to many football fans and industry experts alike.
What Led to the Termination?
The decision to end the sponsorship deal between Qatar Airways and Barcelona was primarily driven by changes in regulations by Spain’s gambling legislation. These new regulations prohibited gambling companies from sponsoring sports teams or advertising on their jerseys. As Qatar Airways had been using its subsidiary, Qatar Foundation, as a platform for its sponsorship agreement with Barcelona, these new laws had implications on their partnership.
The Transition Period
Following the termination of their shirt sponsorship deal, Barcelona faced the challenge of finding a new sponsor to replace Qatar Airways. The club had to carefully navigate this transitional phase, ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining financial stability. Despite the setback, Barcelona managed to secure a new sponsorship deal with Japanese e-commerce company Rakuten, who became their principal sponsor starting from the 2017-2018 season.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Qatar Airways stopped sponsoring FC Barcelona in June 2017 due to changes in Spain’s gambling legislation. This unexpected turn of events led to the end of a successful partnership that had lasted for several years. Nevertheless, Barcelona was quick to adapt and secured a new sponsorship agreement with Rakuten, ensuring continued financial support for the club.
While Qatar Airways’ sponsorship journey with Barcelona may have come to an end, it undoubtedly left its mark on both parties. The collaboration between one of the world’s leading airlines and one of the most iconic football clubs will be remembered as a significant chapter in the history of sports sponsorship.