Alibaba E-Auto Becomes Presenting Partner of FIFA Club World Cup
Just a day before the start of this year's tournament, FIFA today announced that it signed a deal with Alibaba E-Auto to become the new Presenting Partner of the FIFA Club World Cup.
Toyota previously sponsored the FIFA Club World Cup, whereas the last two editions, both held in Morocco, didn't have a Presenting Partner.
Alibaba E-Auto Becomes New FIFA Club World Cup Presenting Partner
Owned by Alibaba Group, a China-based e-commerce company, Alibaba E-Auto has agreed to become the main sponsor of the FIFA Club World Cup for the next eight editions. Alibaba E-Auto will unveil the first "internet car" in 2016 and hopes to build a following through this new partnership.
Beginning at this year’s edition of the competition, which is being held in Japan from 10–20 December, Alibaba E-Auto will have a strong brand presence at both stadiums as well as through the global TV coverage. Alibaba E-Auto will present the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award at each match during the tournament, including the final match on 20 December. The tournament will also provide a worldwide platform for Alibaba E-Auto to launch their upcoming automobile project from 2016 and beyond.
Daniel Zhang, Alibaba Group CEO said: “Alibaba E-Auto, owned by Alibaba Group, is proud to be the Presenting Partner of the FIFA Club World Cup for the coming eight years. Sports is at the intersection of Alibaba Group’s strategic themes of health and happiness, and we look forward to adding new value for participants and consumers in the sports sector through data-driven Internet technology.
FC Tiamo Hirakata 26-27 Home Kit Released
Japanese Football League side FC Tiamo Hirakata has officially unveiled their new 2026-27 home kit, produced by sportswear brand Jogarbola. The release introduces a cracking design under the club's Reborn campaign for the upcoming JFL season, symbolizing a new beginning for the club.
Brighton to Wear 125th Anniversary Kit Against Arsenal
Brighton & Hove Albion have confirmed they will wear their limited-edition Nike 125th anniversary kit during their 2026-27 match against Arsenal in September 2026. The special shirt, which was initially released in May 2026 and draws inspiration from the club's original 1901 kit, will be showcased on the pitch to celebrate the club's founding milestone. Although the official anniversary falls on June 24, the commemorative fixture against the Gunners has been selected as the dedicated anniversary match where the team will debut the historic design.
Nike Creates Personalized Mercurial 2026 World Cup Boots for Kylian Mbappé's France Goalscoring Record
Kylian Mbappé has officially cemented his legacy as the greatest goalscorer in the history of the French national team, surpassing Olivier Giroud to take the top spot. To celebrate this historic milestone of reaching 58 international goals, Nike has presented the star forward with a personalized pair of Mercurial Superfly 11 boots. This special edition footwear arrives just in time as Mbappé prepares to make his 100th appearance for Les Bleus.
The custom Nike Mercurial Superfly 11 Mbappé 2026 World Cup boots features a distinct "58" lightly printed on the lateral side of the heel, representing his record-breaking goal tally. Additionally, a small French tricolor flag is prominently positioned near the heel collar, paying direct homage to his national team.
