Krishnan Sreekumar
Manchester United ready to end Aeroflot sponsorship deal after recent Ukraine crisis
According to the Mirror, Manchester United are set to discontinue their decade-long association with Russian airline Aeroflot as the club’s official carriers after the recent crisis emerging in Europe over Russia and Ukraine.
Ukraine is under heavy bombings and war footing, as Russia has taken the step to invade its neighbouring country due to the past history between the two nations. Europe may possibly be witnessing the start of another large-scale armed conflict, and we can only hope that peace is established between the countries soon.
Given this background, United are keen on distancing themselves from any Russian association and have decided not to renew their relationship with Aeroflot beyond the summer. The airline had been United’s official travel partner since 2013 but will play no more part with the club.
The Red Devils’ new CEO Richard Arnold has decided not to renew their long-standing sponsorship with the national airline of Russia. Their current agreement with the flight carrier will expire in the summer of 2023.
Ending decade long sponsorship
With United being a big side that regularly competes in Europe and travels to other countries for away games in continental club competitions, having an airline sponsor was necessary not only for the revenue but also for their constant travel needs.
However, the Old Trafford side has decided to take the bold step to end ties with a brand that could damage the club’s image and commercial appeal if it continues to be associated with Aeroflot. It certainly is a step in the right direction for all moral reasons.
As one of the world’s biggest clubs, United have a global fan following and brand image that reached all corners of the globe. They are widely popular and have tied up with companies from all over the world to strike sponsorships deals to bring in revenue.
Despite Aeroflot bringing in almost £100m in total to the Manchester side, the club has decided to end its association with the airline because of its Russian background. If the situation in Ukraine gets worse and the United States government bans Aeroflot from entering the country, then United’s American owners could face serious consequences.
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For several reasons, therefore, the club taking the decision to cut ties with the Russian airline is in their best interests. It would also risk upsetting the fan base which is condemning Russia for their actions, and the club will not want that situation to arise.
As things stand, United are currently looking for a new flight carrier sponsor. Further, with foreign pre-seasons being the norm for Premier League clubs in recent years, the summer may bring more opportunities for the squad to jet out, providing COVID does not cause an issue.
