G.O.A.T. Fuel®, the premium energy drink co-founded by NFL legend Jerry Rice, has formalised a strategic partnership with former Super Bowl champion Vernon Davis.
Announced on 21 January 2026, the agreement sees Davis join the organisation as both a brand investor and ambassador, uniting two of the San Francisco 49ers’ greatest tight ends and wide receivers in a mission to disrupt the USD75 billion (AUD111 billion) energy drink industry.
The partnership arrives during a high-performance growth phase for the Black-owned brand, which has scaled from a direct-to-consumer start-up to a retail powerhouse available in more than 10,000 locations, including Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
Davis, an experienced entrepreneur with a portfolio that includes PATH Water and multiple Jamba franchises, will leverage his influence to deepen the brand’s cultural presence across both elite sports and lifestyle sectors.
Commenting on the partnership, NFL legend, Jerry Rice, said: “Vernon’s legacy in football and beyond is built on relentless pursuit and championship mindset.”
“With Vernon Davis on board, we’re poised to further deepen our cultural presence and build something greater—for athletes, for fans, and everyone chasing their own greatness,” Rice said.
Strategic Innovation and Market Growth
Launched in 2020 by Rice, his daughter Jaqui Rice Gold (CEO), and Trevion Gold, G.O.A.T. Fuel distinguishes itself through a unique formula containing cordyceps mushrooms, an adaptogen used to enhance oxygen utilisation and recovery. The product line is engineered for clean energy, featuring zero sugar, natural caffeine, and 10 essential vitamins.
The reason behind Davis’s investment aligns with the brand’s existing high-profile roster, which includes New York Giants star Kayvon Thibodeaux and Minnesota Timberwolves owner Marc Lore.
“I’m honored to stand behind G.O.A.T. Fuel, not just as a former athlete but as a businessman who believes in the power of clean energy and mental resilience,” Davis stated.
As the Official Energy Drink of the Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Sky, G.O.A.T. Fuel has secured recognisable legitimacy in professional sports.
The organisation recently refreshed its packaging and formula in early 2026 to stay ahead of consumer trends, focusing on “performance amplified” for a demographic that spans from professional athletes to health-conscious entrepreneurs.
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