Meta and Arsenal FC Launch Global Partnership via WhatsApp and Facebook

Arsenal Football Club and Meta have announced a new global partnership designed to integrate WhatsApp and Facebook deeper into the daily rituals of the club’s worldwide fanbase.

The collaboration aims to spotlight the role Meta’s “Family of Apps” plays in the transfer speculation, tactical debates, and community-building that define the modern supporter experience.

The partnership focuses on the distinct ways “Gooners” utilise different platforms: WhatsApp for private “inner circle” group chats and voice messages, and Facebook as a global digital stage for Reels, watch parties, and large-scale fan groups.

Noting that the partnership is a strategic move to support the club’s trophy-winning ambitions, chief commercial officer at Arsenal, Juliet Slot, said: “Our partnership with Meta builds on how our supporters already come together, wherever they are in the world.”

“Partnerships like this play an important role in… strengthening our connection with supporters,” Slot said.

Emphasising the year-round nature of football fandom, head of Marketing for Meta’s Family of Apps, Vivian Odior, added: “We know that being an Arsenal supporter doesn’t start at kick-off and end at the final whistle.”

“WhatsApp and Facebook are where that year-round passion lives,” Odior said.

Digital Content and ‘It’s Official’ Film Launch

To mark the commencement of the deal, the parties have premiered a new short film titled ‘It’s Official.’

The content, which is being distributed across Arsenal, WhatsApp, and Facebook’s owned channels, captures the emotional arc of a supporter’s journey, from pre-match anticipation to the post-match digital post-mortem.

Key digital activations included in the deal:

• WhatsApp Channel: Supporters will gain access to unique digital experiences and exclusive updates through the official verified WhatsApp Channel.
• Facebook Community Hub: Opportunities for fans to attend matches will be facilitated through official Facebook groups and the club’s verified page.
• Emirates Stadium Activations: A series of physical activations are scheduled throughout April at the Emirates Stadium to bridge the gap between digital interaction and the live matchday experience.

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