The David Tepper-led effort to bring an MLS expansion team to Charlotte has obtained corporate backing, as Ally Financial has signed on as the founding and lead partner of the potential squad.
The multi-year agreement makes Ally the founding and lead partner of a potential MLS team in Charlotte and the Carolinas. The announcement comes as Tepper and executives from his Carolina Panthers continue to build their case for a future MLS expansion team.
“This new partnership signals an exciting time for both Ally and the Charlotte region,” said Jeffrey Brown, chief executive officer, Ally. “We’re humbled to be the first partner alongside David Tepper in his quest, and in addition to expanding our presence in the market, we’re excited about the positive economic impact an MLS team will have in the region.”
Among the benefits of being the lead partner, Ally will receive front-of-jersey (or “kit”) branding.
“We couldn’t be more excited about our partnership with Ally. Soccer in the Carolinas is buzzing with excitement and we know that bringing another pro sports team to Charlotte will benefit fans, the city, region and wider community,” said Tepper.
Aside from marketing efforts, Ally plans to leverage its partnership with the Bid Team to further demonstrate its commitment to the local community. Professional soccer is a great platform to help amplify Ally’s efforts surrounding economic mobility, financial literacy, employee engagement, and more.
“We believe in being a relentless ally for the community, just as much as we believe in being a relentless ally for our customers,” said Andrea Brimmer, chief marketing and public relations officer, Ally. “Charlotte is a place where we live, work, and play, so we know how much of a soccer town this is – and how much soccer can impact our community.”
The newly announced partnership is an expansion of Ally’s relationship with soccer. Since 2016, Ally has served as the official financial services partner of the International Champions Cup.
Image, showing Ally employees surrounding Ally Financial CEO, Jeffrey Brown (left) and Charlotte Bid Team leader Tom Glick (right), courtesy Ally Financial.