Major League Soccer (MLS) has officially welcomed California-based fintech leader Chime as a major commercial partner. The deal, announced on February 18, 2026, marks Chime’s first significant venture into professional soccer, positioning the firm as the league’s official retail banking, credit card, and debit card partner in the United States.
The announcement arrives just days before the 2026 MLS season kicks off on Saturday, February 21, as the league enters a high-profile year following Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS Cup victory.
Strategic Sponsorship Activations
The partnership is designed to integrate Chime’s financial services across the league’s most high-profile events and digital platforms:
- MLS All-Star Game Branding: Chime will serve as the presenting partner for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game on July 23. Notably, the firm has secured jersey branding rights for the event, placing its logo on the kits of the league’s top stars.
- Original Content Series: A new co-branded content series will be launched, offering fans behind-the-scenes access to the lives and stories of MLS players and personalities.
- Stadium & Digital Presence: Fans will see Chime branding across in-stadium signage and digital platforms, supported by “national contextual advertising” throughout the season.
Strengthening the MLS Commercial Roster
The addition of Chime reinforces a robust commercial portfolio for MLS as it heads into a World Cup year on North American soil. Chime joins an elite group of league sponsors, including:
- Automotive: Audi
- Retail: Walmart
- Crypto/Prediction: Polymarket
- Technical: Adidas
- Logistics/Finance: Corpay and Continental Tires
“This partnership represents a milestone for Chime as we enter the world of professional soccer. MLS provides an incredible platform to connect with a diverse, tech-savvy fanbase,” a Chime representative noted regarding the launch.