BYD becomes Official Automotive Partner of Khaleeji 27 football tournament
BYD has signed a partnership with the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation to become the Official Automotive Partner of the Khaleeji 27 tournament in Jeddah.
4.6 million vehicles
April 2026
120,000
What Happened
BYD, the world's leading manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles, has become the Official Automotive Partner of the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation (AGCFF) and the Khaleeji 27 tournament. The announcement represents BYD's first official sponsorship of a major Gulf football event and a significant milestone in its regional expansion. The tournament will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from 23 September to 7 October 2026, featuring teams from eight nations.
Signing ceremony in Doha, Qatar
Khaleeji 27 tournament in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
“This cooperation reflects mutual trust and a shared vision aimed at developing the tournament and strengthening its fan engagement. This partnership with BYD also underscores AGCFF’s ongoing commitment and continuous efforts to attract leading brands with significant influence in the region.”
“We're proud and excited to be the Official Automotive Partner of the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation and Khaleeji 27. Football has a unique ability to bring people together, and Khaleeji is one of the strongest expressions of unity, passion and pride across the Gulf region.”
- On-site test-drive area for BYD models
- Interactive displays and experiences in the official Fan Zone
4.6 millionvehicles
Over 1 million sold outside China
Previously from BYD
BYD has been expanding its sports sponsorship strategy. In February 2026, the company became the Official Automotive Partner of Manchester City FC in a multi-year deal. The new partnership with the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation continues this approach.
Background drawn from MotorClaw's earlier coverage of BYD's official releases.
Why this matters
This is BYD's first major football sponsorship in the Gulf region, marking a strategic expansion in a key market. The partnership allows BYD to engage with fans through test drives and interactive displays, boosting brand visibility among football audiences.
Terms in This Story
- NEV
- New Energy Vehicle, a category including battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
- PHEV
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, a vehicle that combines an internal combustion engine with a battery that can be recharged from an external power source.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.