BYD Forges Premier League Alliance with Manchester City in Global Brand Push

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD has secured a multi-year partnership with Manchester City Football Club, marking a significant step in its international branding strategy. Announced on February 11, 2026, the agreement names BYD as the official automotive partner of the Premier League champion.

This move comes at a strategic time for the automaker. With domestic sales in China showing signs of softening in January, BYD is aggressively targeting growth in key overseas markets. The collaboration with one of the world's most visible football clubs is central to this European offensive.

The partnership extends across the entire club. BYD branding will be featured on the training kit sleeves of Manchester City's men's team immediately, with the women's team to follow in the next season. Within the Etihad Stadium, the company will secure prominent LED advertising displays and logo placement on headrests in the technical area.

Beyond traditional advertising, the deal has a practical component. BYD will supply a fleet of its electric vehicles, including models from its premium DENZA brand, for use by the club. Furthermore, the company will install charging infrastructure and energy storage systems at the City Football Academy.

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Leveraging Global Sports for Market Expansion

Aligning with Manchester City is the latest in a series of high-profile sponsorships for BYD, following its cooperation with UEFA EURO 2024. The company is leveraging the global audience of top-tier football to boost brand recognition, particularly in the United Kingdom and Europe where it is actively expanding its dealership network.

This international focus is intensifying as competitive pressures mount in its home market. While January saw a dip in domestic deliveries, BYD's export figures continue to demonstrate growth. The company's global ambitions are further evidenced by plans to significantly ramp up local production capacity in Brazil.

Market observers anticipate an active period for BYD following the Lunar New Year holiday, with a wave of new model and technology launches expected. The Manchester City partnership is viewed as a cornerstone of the broader strategy to cement the BYD brand in the minds of consumers worldwide.