FC Cincinnati has added another element to its MLS expansion pitch, as it has announced a major MLS jersey partnership with Mercy Health.
If the club’s MLS expansion bid is accepted in December, the partnership would result in what has been claimed to be one of the largest jersey sponsorships in the league. Specific terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
“Mercy Health’s partnership with FC Cincinnati reaffirms the strength of the business community’s support for FC Cincinnati’s MLS vision. With an assist from Premier Partnerships, two incredible organizations are coming together for the benefit of our community by bringing MLS to the Queen City,” said Carl H. Lindner III FC Cincinnati majority owner. “Mercy Health’s long-standing history and the nearly $1 million in daily community benefit it extends across their footprint is commendable. We look forward to enhancing that impact with our commitment and partnership in building community gardens, soccer camps for underserved communities, health events and screenings and more. This is a great day for the city of Cincinnati and for our region.”
“As a native of Ohio, I know first-hand how passionate our communities are about coming together to rally around causes that matter and the teams that are close to their hearts. FC Cincinnati’s successful track record and meteoric popularity is nothing short of impressive. The team and their passionate fans have really put our region on the map,” said John Starcher, Mercy Health President and CEO. “We are excited to partner with an organization that has engaged our community so strongly and are thrilled FC Cincinnati is committed to joining us in positively impacting lives across Ohio. We’re pleased to join forces and support FC Cincinnati’s bid to be an MLS franchise team.”
MLS is expected to announce a slate of winning expansion bids in mid-December. Cincinnati has been making a push to be included in that the group, and revealed additional details on the potential for a new $250 million soccer-specific stadium last week.
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