In a groundbreaking fusion of technology and sports passion, BYD has solidified its position in international football by becoming the Official Automotive Partner of Manchester City Football Club. The announcement, made on February 11, 2026, marks one of the most significant collaborations between a global technology innovator and a premier football brand.
A Strategic Alliance for Sustainable Innovation
The multi-year partnership represents a comprehensive 360-degree approach that reflects BYD Group's multifaceted innovation capabilities and shared vision for a more sustainable future with Manchester City. This strategic alliance goes beyond traditional sponsorship arrangements to create meaningful technological integration between the automotive and sports sectors.
Comprehensive Partnership Elements
The collaboration includes several key components that will enhance both organizations' visibility and sustainability efforts:
- Training Kit Branding: Starting immediately, BYD's branding will appear on the training-kit sleeve of Manchester City's men's first team. From the next season, this visibility will extend to the women's first team training kits as well.
- Vehicle Supply: BYD will supply its electric vehicles, including both BYD and DENZA brand cars, to Manchester City for various operational needs.
- Stadium Presence: The BYD logo will feature prominently on the headrests of the dug-out area at Etihad Stadium, and one of the company's vehicles will lead the official men's first team bus into the stadium for Premier League and domestic-cup home fixtures.
- Sustainable Technology Integration: BYD will bring its new-energy expertise to City Football Academy through vehicle charging infrastructure and energy-storage battery solutions at the state-of-the-art training facility.
Shared Values and Global Vision
BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li emphasized the alignment between the two organizations, stating: "Manchester City stands for excellence, innovation and the courage to push beyond limits — values that are deeply rooted in BYD's DNA. This partnership is about more than football or mobility; it is about inspiring people around the world through technology that excites, connects and drives a more sustainable future."
Ferran Soriano, Chief Executive Officer at City Football Group, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the shared commitment to excellence and environmental sustainability: "BYD are global leaders within their field. Leaders in delivering excellence through technology and innovation. Leaders with purpose, to make the world a better place. All values that Manchester City share."
Strategic Expansion in Football Sponsorship
This partnership represents the latest step in BYD's strategic initiative to establish a stronger presence in international football. The company has previously demonstrated its commitment to the sport through official sponsorship of major European tournaments, including UEFA EURO 2024 and the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025.
The collaboration with Manchester City provides BYD with access to one of the most globally recognized football brands, enhancing awareness of its electric vehicles and sustainable mobility solutions across diverse international markets. The partnership's multi-year duration ensures sustained visibility and technological collaboration between the automotive innovator and football powerhouse.
As both organizations move forward with this strategic alliance, they have committed to working together toward creating a more environmentally sustainable future, beginning with their shared facilities and extending to broader global initiatives that combine technological innovation with sporting excellence.
