The worldwide technology leader has also partnered with New York City FC, Melbourne City FC, Yokohama F. Marinos and Sichuan Jiuniu FC in a deal which also includes the women’s teams in Manchester and Melbourne.
Cisco’s first ever major partnership with a football organisation will focus on using technology to drive innovation, enhancing connectivity for clubs, players and fans and positively impacting people and communities around the world through sport.
Throughout the partnership, CFG will utilise Cisco’s networking and other key technologies to enhance the operations of each club and strengthen connectivity across the Group as a whole.
Today’s announcement formalises the relationship between the two organisations which began in 2013 when Manchester City installed Cisco technology across the Etihad Stadium and wider campus – a system that has supported every aspect of the Club’s operation ever since.
As part of its ambition to positively impact the lives of one billion people by 2025, Cisco will support Cityzens Giving, the Group’s global initiative to empower young leaders in cities around the world to tackle social issues through the power of football.
In addition to supporting the creation of a new community football project, Cisco’s commitment to bridging hope and possibility through technology will drive innovation and connectivity across the global Cityzens Giving project network.
“We are delighted to announce this new partnership with Cisco which will span four continents across the City Football Group network,” said Damian Willoughby, Senior Vice President of Partnerships at City Football Group.
“CFG is an organisation built on people and we are excited to embrace Cisco’s technologies to better connect our clubs, players and fans across the world.
“This partnership will be driven by its shared values of innovation, pushing the boundaries of our industries and providing a positive impact to the communities in which we operate, and we are delighted to welcome such a prestigious brand into the CFG family.”
Brian Eaton, Director of Global Sports Marketing at Cisco, added: “In City Football Group we found a global organisation that is relentless in its pursuit of excellence and taps into people’s passions in a way that few other things can.
“While they already use Cisco technology to bring connectivity to fans, they see an opportunity to partner and use technology to positively shape the business of football.
“Cisco believes technology is a bridge to possible, a future that benefits people in a dynamic and positive way.
“That shared belief is the foundation of our partnership and from which we are excited to embark on a meaningful relationship.”
