Major League Soccer (MLS) team FC Cincinnati has announced a partnership with fan engagement platform Rival.
As a result of the deal, the two parties will join forces to launch the club’s online gaming platform as it looks to expand its presence within grassroots esports.
To kick off the deal, FC Cincinnati and Rival will host its inaugural FIFA tournament on August 9th. Following the tournament, the club will host the FC Cincinnati Esports Night alongside wholesale baking company Klosterman, which will act as the presenting partner for the event.
Winners of the FIFA tournament will earn four tickets to the club’s upcoming match against Atlanta United in addition to playing games with its eMLS player Macissé ‘Cissé’ Diop.
Rival is no stranger to launching esports platforms alongside football clubs. In 2021, the platform partners with English football club Reading FC to launch Royals Esports. In addition, Rival has also partnered with the likes of Liverpool Football Club and NHL team Florida Panthers.
FC Cincinnati currently fields one player in the FIFA 22 Global Series and the eMLS.
Dan Parise, Chief Marketing Officer at Rival, spoke on the deal: “We are thrilled to expand our portfolio in soccer with the launch of FC Cincinnati’s gaming community.”
“With its clear and innovative approach connecting virtual and live sports and cultural experiences, we see endless applications and possibilities to collaborate and grow the club’s connection with fans through esports.”