Manchester City Football Club has announced a significant partnership with BYD, a global leader in fresh energy vehicles (NEV), marking a major step towards integrating sustainable practices within the club’s operations. The multi-year agreement, revealed on February 14, 2026, extends beyond traditional sponsorship, encompassing the provision of electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, and energy storage solutions for both the Etihad Stadium and the City Football Academy. This collaboration underscores a growing trend within professional sports to prioritize environmental responsibility and engage with brands committed to a greener future.
The partnership signifies a shift in Manchester City’s commercial strategy, with BYD replacing Nissan as the club’s official automotive partner. This move aligns with the Premier League champions’ broader sustainability goals, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly transportation options. BYD’s involvement isn’t simply about branding. it’s about actively contributing to a more sustainable infrastructure for the club and its facilities. The deal too builds on BYD’s existing presence in European football, having previously sponsored UEFA Euro 2024 and the upcoming UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025.
BYD’s Integrated Approach: Vehicles, Charging, and Energy Storage
The scope of the partnership is comprehensive. BYD will supply both electric vehicles from its core BYD line-up and premium DENZA brand to Manchester City. Crucially, the agreement includes the installation of vehicle charging infrastructure and energy storage battery systems at the City Football Academy, the club’s state-of-the-art training facility. This investment in charging infrastructure is a key component, enabling the club to transition its fleet to electric vehicles and reduce reliance on traditional fuel sources. The integration of energy storage systems will further enhance the sustainability of the academy’s energy consumption.
Beyond the practical applications, BYD’s branding will be prominently displayed throughout the club’s facilities. The company’s logo will feature on the sleeves of the men’s first-team training kits, starting immediately, and will expand to the women’s first team from the next season. BYD will also have a visible presence at the Etihad Stadium, with its logo appearing on the headrests of the dug-out area. Adding a symbolic touch, a BYD vehicle will lead the official Manchester City men’s first team bus into the stadium for Premier League and domestic cup home fixtures.
Expanding BYD’s European Footprint
This partnership represents a strategic move for BYD to increase its brand awareness and establish a stronger foothold in the European market, particularly the United Kingdom. The UK has seen strong adoption of electric vehicles despite recent market fluctuations, making it a key target for BYD’s expansion plans. Stella Li, BYD Executive Vice President, described the partnership as going beyond a commercial tie-up, highlighting shared values of innovation, performance, and sustainability. BYD’s official announcement emphasizes the 360-degree approach of the collaboration, reflecting the company’s multifaceted innovation.
BYD’s model range includes the Dolphin, Atto 2, Atto 3, Seal, Sealion 5 DM-i, Seal U DM-i, Sealion 7, Seal 6 DM-i, and Seal 6 DM-i Touring. The company’s Blade Battery and e-Platform 3 technologies are also central to its NEV offerings. Manchester City’s official announcement confirms the club’s commitment to working with BYD to explore and implement new energy solutions.
The partnership also follows BYD’s sponsorship of Inter Milan since last summer, demonstrating a clear strategy of aligning with high-profile football clubs to enhance brand recognition. Electrive.com reports that while BYD’s logo won’t appear on the match kits, the branding will be prominent on training wear and around the stadium.
What’s Next for Manchester City and BYD?
The immediate focus will be on integrating BYD vehicles into Manchester City’s fleet and installing the necessary charging infrastructure at the City Football Academy. The expansion of BYD’s branding across the club’s facilities will also be rolled out in the coming weeks and months. Looking ahead, the partnership has the potential to serve as a model for other sports organizations seeking to embrace sustainable practices and collaborate with innovative technology companies. The success of this venture will likely influence future partnerships and investments in the realm of green sports.
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