Visa Expands Partnership with AFC in Landmark 2026–2029 Commercial Agreement

The Asian Football Confederation has secured global financial services provider Visa as an official global supporter across its premier club competitions for the 2026 through 2029 cycle.

Under the agreement, Visa will serve as the official payment services partner for the AFC Champions League Elite, AFC Champions League Two, and the AFC Women’s Champions League, deepening an existing corporate relationship that already covers major national team tournaments.

The alliance is designed to elevate commercial engagement, streamline ticketing operations, and enhance digital fan experiences across participating territories throughout Asia.

As part of the comprehensive sponsorship package, Visa cardholders will gain exclusive commercial access, including preferred card processing at tournament finals and early ticket pre-sale windows.

Furthermore, the partnership introduces interactive activation opportunities such as the official coin toss, exclusive stadium experiences, and bespoke digital campaigns deployed via Visa’s extensive network of international member banking institutions.

Commercial rights management agency Asia Football Group facilitated the agreement, underscoring the growing market valuation and commercial viability of regional club football competitions across both men’s and women’s divisions.

Highlighting the value of the collaboration, AFC general secretary, Datuk Seri Windsor John, emphasised the importance of aligning with trusted global brands to drive organisational growth.

“We are thrilled to expand our global partnership with Visa.”

“As one of the world’s most trusted brands, Visa brings unparalleled payment expertise that will elevate convenience and security for football fans throughout Asia.

“This collaboration perfectly aligns with our Vision to deliver world-class club competitions and deepen our engagement with our fans, especially as we nurture the exciting growth of the AFC Club Competitions,” he stated.

Echoing these sentiments, chief marketing officer for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Visa, Tarek Abdalla, noted the broader marketing impact of the sponsorship.

“Visa’s partnership with the AFC reflects our belief in the power of sport to connect people, communities and economies.”

“As Asia’s premier club competitions continue to grow in reach and influence, we are proud to bring our global payment services expertise to help create more secure and more rewarding experiences for fans.

“From enabling easier access to tickets to supporting memorable matchday moments, this partnership is another way Visa is helping fans get closer to the game while supporting the continued growth of both men’s and women’s football across the region,” Abdalla remarked.

Asia Football Group chief executive officer, Patrick Murphy, added: “Visa’s expansion into the AFC club competition portfolio is a natural extension of a partnership that has grown from strength to strength.”

“Having Visa as our global payment services partner across the AFC Champions League Elite™, AFC Champions League Two™ and AFC Women’s Champions League™ adds real depth to the fan experience, from the first coin toss to the Final,” Abdalla said.

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