Manchester City and BYD Announce Landmark Strategic Partnership
In a significant move for both the automotive and sports industries, BYD has officially become the Official Automotive Partner of Manchester City Football Club. This multi-year agreement brings together the world’s leading manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and one of the most successful brands in global football to champion a shared vision of a sustainable future.
A 360-Degree Approach to Sustainability
The collaboration goes beyond traditional sponsorship, employing a “360-degree approach” that integrates BYD’s technological innovation directly into the club’s infrastructure.
- Fleet Supply: BYD will provide a range of BYD and DENZA cars to the club for operational use.
- Renewable Energy Solutions: The City Football Academy, the training home for the men’s, women’s, and academy teams, will utilize BYD Group’s expertise in vehicle charging and energy-storage batteries.
- Operational Integration: In a unique matchday activation, a BYD vehicle will lead the Manchester City men’s first team bus into the stadium for Premier League and domestic-cup home fixtures.
Global Brand Visibility
Fans will see the BYD brand integrated across several high-profile platforms beginning immediately:
- Training Kits: The BYD logo will feature on the training-kit sleeve for the men’s first team starting today, with the women’s first team following next season.
- Stadium Presence: At the Etihad Stadium, BYD branding will be visible on the headrests within the dug-out area.
- International Strategy: This partnership follows BYD’s successful roles as the official sponsor of UEFA EURO 2024 and the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025, further solidifying its presence in international football.
Shared Values of Excellence and Innovation
The leadership of both organizations emphasized the alignment of their corporate DNA. Stella Li, BYD Executive Vice President, noted that Manchester City’s commitment to “excellence, innovation, and the courage to push beyond limits” mirrors the core values of BYD. Ferran Soriano, CEO of City Football Group, highlighted that the partnership is a commitment to working toward an environmentally sustainable future through industry-leading technology.
BYD’s Rapid Global Expansion
This partnership is backed by BYD’s formidable growth in the NEV sector. By the end of 2025, the company achieved several historic milestones:
- Produced its 15 millionth NEV in December 2025.
- Sold 4.6 million vehicles globally in 2025 alone, with over one million sales occurring outside of China.
- Maintains a massive R&D force of 120,000 engineers, filing an average of 45 new patent applications every working day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of BYD in the Manchester City partnership? BYD is the Official Automotive Partner of Manchester City. The agreement includes supplying electric vehicles (BYD and DENZA), providing energy-storage batteries for training facilities, and featured branding on training kits and stadium dug-outs.
When will the BYD logo appear on Manchester City kits? The branding appears on the training-kit sleeves of the men’s first team starting February 11, 2026. The women’s first team will feature the branding starting next season.
Which Manchester City facilities will use BYD technology? The City Football Academy will utilize BYD’s energy-storage batteries and vehicle charging technology to support its training and development operations.
Which car brands are involved in the deal? The partnership involves both the BYD brand and its premium sub-brand, DENZA.
What other football events has BYD sponsored? BYD was previously the official sponsor for UEFA EURO 2024 and the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025.
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