We can announce a new long-term agreement with Budweiser, with the iconic brand becoming an official partner and the official beer of the England Women’s team.
The partnership will see Budweiser embark on its first-ever sponsorship of women’s football and they will work collaboratively with Phil Neville’s side as they head to France for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The partnership aims to help drive real change in women’s football, break down social barriers and perceptions, and showcase the women’s game by building the profile and visibility of the players.
The partnership was signed in the run-up to International Women’s Day, which this year concentrates on the theme of #BalanceforBetter, calling for gender balance across the world.
Mark Bullingham, FA group commercial director, said: “Budweiser is one of our long-standing partners so we’re delighted to be taking this next step with them as they announce their partnership with the England Women’s team.
“After seeing their brilliant support of the England Men’s team, we’re excited to see how the Budweiser partnership will help the Lionesses reach new fans and potential new players.
“2019 is set to be another historic year for the growth of support for women’s football.”
This latest partnership forms part of Budweiser’s wider support for the England teams, with Bud Light becoming the official partner of the England Men’s team, and Budweiser being the official beer of Wembley Stadium connected by EE.
Budweiser has played an active role in investing in grassroots and elite-level initiatives in football. Since 2012 Budweiser has invested over £1.3m directly into English football, through initiatives such as the Budweiser Club Futures programme, which makes an annual grant to a grassroots football club competing in the Emirates FA Cup.
Paula Lindenberg, president for AB InBev UK & Ireland, added: “We believe that football is more than just a game – it’s a huge part of our culture, and one of the best ways to bring people together, which is why Budweiser and football share a natural affinity.
“We couldn’t be more excited to take this bond to the next level by supporting the incredibly skilful Lionesses at this point in their journey.
“We believe that our values match the Lionesses’ perfectly. We champion passion and ambition, qualities that the England Women’s team display every time they step on the pitch.
“You only need to look at their winning performance in the SheBelieves Cup to see that this year is going to be epic for the team.”
