Atletico Madrid Establishes Riyadh Air as the New Naming Rights Sponsor for the Stadium

Atletico Madrid has announced a significant agreement with Riyadh Air, officially establishing the Saudi airline as the new naming rights sponsor for their stadium. The deal, one of the largest in sports history, rebrands the stadium as the Riyadh Air Metropolitano and represents a major extension of the partnership between the La Liga club and the Saudi-based company.

The agreement, which runs until 2033, is reportedly valued at up to €300 million, making it the most lucrative sponsorship deal in Atletico Madrid’s history. Riyadh Air, which became the club’s main shirt sponsor last year, now increases its influence by securing the naming rights for the club’s 70,460-seater stadium. This deal follows previous sponsorships with Wanda and Civitas, both of which held the stadium’s naming rights before Riyadh Air.

The partnership underscores the growing Saudi involvement in European football. Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, emphasized the airline’s commitment to raising its global profile through the collaboration.

Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil expressed his pride in extending the partnership, describing it as a crucial element in the club’s ongoing development and international appeal. He highlighted the importance of the agreement, saying that it aligns with the global ambitions of both Atletico Madrid and Riyadh Air. Tony Douglas shared similar sentiments, noting that having Riyadh Air’s name on such an iconic stadium would enhance the airline’s visibility across the sporting world and beyond.

The first official match at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano is scheduled for October 20, when Atletico Madrid will host Leganes. A formal unveiling of the newly branded stadium, including updates to signage and branding, will take place during the event. Although the rebranding process is already in motion, the installation of the name on the stadium’s northeast and southeast stands will be completed in the coming weeks.

This historic deal is part of a broader strategy by Saudi entities to increase their presence in global football, particularly in Europe. Riyadh Air’s involvement with Atletico Madrid follows a series of investments and partnerships between Saudi businesses and top football clubs. Earlier this year, La Liga also partnered with Riyadh Season, a Saudi-backed sports event entity, further highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the world of soccer.

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