Inter Milan Signs 10-Year Global Merchandising Deal with Fanatics.

Roger Hampel

Photo Credit: FC Internazionale Milano

FC Internazionale Milano has entered into a 10-year strategic partnership with Fanatics, the U.S.-based digital sports platform and leader in licensed merchandise. The deal spans ecommerce, retail, manufacturing, and licensing, and is one of the most structurally ambitious commercial agreements in European football to date.

The long-term partnership is set to redefine how Inter connects with its fanbase — locally in Milan, nationally in Italy, and across its 530-million-strong global audience — by centralizing and modernizing merchandising operations under Fanatics’ vertically integrated commerce model.

Beyond Kit Deals: Merchandising as Infrastructure

Fanatics will take full control of Inter’s global retail operations, combining local knowledge from its Milan-based Italian HQ with its expansive global capabilities. This includes end-to-end supply chain control, ecommerce, product design, in-store experience, and licensing.

“Inter boasts a global fanbase of over 530 million people and ranks as the second fastest-growing European club since 2020,” said Giorgio Ricci, Chief Revenue Officer at Inter.“This collaboration will transform the way Inter is present in the retail sector—not only in Italy, but even more so on the international stage.”

The agreement brings Inter into the same commercial ecosystem as UEFA, the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, Formula 1, and over 900 other sports entities currently working with Fanatics. The company operates more than 80 offices, 2,000+ retail locations, and a global ecommerce platform tailored to modern fan expectations.

Commercial Context: Why This Deal Matters Inter Milan Fanatics

This is not a conventional merchandising partnership — it is a distribution and brand control agreement, aimed at ensuring product consistency, increased volume, faster fulfillment, and international visibility.

For Inter, the partnership is designed to:

• Expand product range and accessibility

• Offer regionally tailored collections beyond generic lines

• Integrate retail and digital fan experience across platforms

• Improve logistics and availability, particularly during peak demand cycles (e.g. Champions League, Club World Cup, derby matches)

  
  

“Inter is a powerhouse in world football,” said Stephen Dowling, President, International at Fanatics. “We’re excited to partner with such an iconic club to enhance the shopping experience for millions of fans.”

Global Activation: From Milan to New York

Inter will play a central role at the upcoming Fanatics Fest New York, scheduled for 20–22 June 2025 at the Javits Center. The event will feature major athletes, clubs, and entertainment figures, and will serve as a launchpad for the new Inter x Fanatics collaboration on U.S. soil.

This presence is especially relevant as Inter continues to increase its commercial focus in North America — part of a broader club strategy ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, where the Nerazzurri will represent Europe on the expanded 32-club stage.

Strategic Impact: Long-Term Control and Brand Equity

The 10-year term is notable. In an industry where three- to five-year partnerships are standard, Inter’s decade-long commitment reflects a willingness to lock in infrastructure at scale — and a trust in Fanatics to deliver consistent returns over time.

“Inter means everything to its fans and we understand the responsibility that this deal brings,” said Lorenzo Forte, CEO of Fanatics Italia.“Our team in Italy will be laser focused on delivering for this passionate fanbase.”

For Fanatics, the deal provides deeper penetration into Serie A and further solidifies its role as the de facto backbone of global football merchandising.