AC Milan and Emirates Renew Partnership, Marking 20 Years of Collaboration.

Roger Hampel

Image: AC Milan

AC Milan and Emirates have announced the renewal of one of the longest and most successful partnerships in global football. The airline will continue as the Official Airline Partner and Principal Partner of the Italian club, extending a relationship that began in 2007 and will now reach its 20th anniversary.

Two Global Brands, One Shared Vision AC Milan Emirates

Since its inception, the collaboration between AC Milan and Emirates has gone beyond traditional sponsorship. It has been a partnership centered on mutual brand elevation, international visibility, and long-term commercial alignment.

Over nearly two decades, the Emirates logo has become one of the most recognizable symbols on AC Milan’s shirt, accompanying the club through sporting success, commercial expansion, and global fan growth. For Emirates, the partnership has helped strengthen its connection with Italy — one of its key European markets — and reinforce its image as a global connector of people and cultures.

Maikel Oettle, Chief Commercial Officer of AC Milan, said:

“The renewal of our partnership with Emirates stands as testimony to one of the most historic and admired collaborations in football. Emirates will continue to stand by our side, helping us strengthen the Club’s solid foundations and connect new generations of fans around the world.”

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, added:

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with AC Milan. This collaboration, built on shared values and a mutual commitment to excellence, has created unforgettable experiences for millions of fans worldwide. Our relationship with Italy and the Rossoneri community continues to grow stronger as we connect Milan and Dubai — and fans everywhere — through our global network.”

Strategic Importance of the Middle East

The renewal also highlights the growing relevance of the Middle East market in AC Milan’s global strategy. The club strengthened its regional presence with the opening of Casa Milan Dubai in 2023, designed as both a fan hub and business platform.

For Emirates, this extension aligns with its continued focus on Italy, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of direct flights between Milan and Dubai — a route that has facilitated cultural and economic exchange between the two regions.