[mkdf_dropcaps type=”normal” color=”#f55549″ background_color=””]I[/mkdf_dropcaps]
talian top-flight football club, AC Milan, have announced a strategic partnership with esports organisation, Qlash, to create a new esports team, AC Milan Qlash.

AC Milan Qlash will compete in FIFA 21 competitions including the FIFA Global Series and FIFA Club World Cup, as well as mobile game, Brawl Stars and other esports titles.

AC Milan chief revenue officer, Casper Stylsvig, said the move is an exciting entry into the world of esports for the club, with two members of the Qlash team already confirmed to be participating in the eSerie A TIM 2020/2021 championship on FIFA 21.

“This agreement is another important step in our club’s modernisation and innovation path,” Stylsvig said.

“We are sure it will be an exciting and incredible experience, both for us and for our fans around the world, and we’re delighted to be embarking on this new adventure in the world of esports in partnership with a leading company like Qlash,” he said.

Qlash co-founder and chief executive, Luca Pagano, said: “for traditional companies that have the courage to adjust and embrace innovation, esports can represent a huge growth opportunity.”

“We are thrilled and proud that AC Milan decided to pick Qlash as their esports arm, not just for operation, but also at brand and commercial levels.

“AC Milan Qlash is a true, deep, and effective partnership.

“For sponsors that want to invest in the future, without neglecting the present or their traditions, together we will be able to offer the best of both worlds,” Pagano said.

The announcement came as a shock to esports experts, after Qlash announced a similar partnership in February with AC Milan rivals, Inter Milan, before making this confirmed switch to AC Milan.