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Tag: Chennaiyin FC

  • Jhingan joins IOS in a new defensive strategy off the pitch

    Jhingan joins IOS in a new defensive strategy off the pitch

    MUMBAI: From boots to brand play, Sandesh Jhingan is lining up a new formation. Indian football’s defensive rock, Sandesh Jhingan, is now dribbling into new territory brand management. The 31-year-old centre-back has signed with IOS Sports and Entertainment, marking a strategic off-field move aimed at amplifying his brand presence and widening his impact beyond the beautiful game.

    Jhingan, currently with FC Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL), brings over a decade of international experience to the IOS stable. Since making his debut for India in 2013, the Chandigarh-born defender has racked up more than 50 caps for the national side, captained India in marquee tournaments like the AFC Asian Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and has become a household name in Indian football.

    Known for his no-nonsense defending, aerial dominance, and vocal leadership, Jhingan has turned out for ISL heavyweights such as Kerala Blasters, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and Chennaiyin FC. His brief but landmark stint with Croatian club HNK Šibenik in 2021 made him one of the rare Indian players to play in Europe, adding an international edge to his résumé.

    He was named the AIFF Men’s Player of the Year for 2020–21, further cementing his status as one of Asia’s top defenders.

    On signing with IOS, Jhingan said, “I’m excited to join the IOS Sports and Entertainment family and work with a team that has such an impressive track record with India’s top athletes. Their expertise feels like the perfect assist as I look to amplify my story and connect with more people at a deeper level.”

    IOS, known for managing India’s sporting icons like Vijender Singh, Mirabai Chanu, Anju Bobby George, Lovlina Borgohain, and Manpreet Singh, sees Jhingan as a valuable addition to its football playbook.

    “Sandesh represents everything we look for in an athlete exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and the ability to inspire others,” said IOS COO Rahul Trehan. “His addition strengthens our commitment to supporting India’s sporting heroes across all disciplines.”

    The partnership aims to elevate Jhingan’s brand through holistic management from endorsement deals and media visibility to community initiatives and content-driven storytelling. With football gaining ground as a serious sport-business in India, Jhingan’s play with IOS could be just the pivot the sport needs.

    After all, he’s long been the last line of defence now, he’s ready to be the face of a new offensive.

  • Chennaiyin FC announces Ramraj Cotton as presenting sponsor

    Chennaiyin FC announces Ramraj Cotton as presenting sponsor

    Mumbai: Chennaiyin FC has entered into a strategic partnership with Ramraj Cotton, an Indian traditional and ethnic wear brand as the club’s presenting sponsor.

    Under this partnership, Ramraj Cotton’s logo will be prominently displayed on the back of Chennaiyin FC’s playing kits. Additionally, the branding will also feature around the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai through pitch-side LED boards, static perimeter boards, 3D CamCarpets, award presentations, and more.

    Commenting on the association, Chennaiyin FC’s co-owner Vita Dani stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Ramraj Cotton, a renowned national brand, as our presenting sponsor. Our organisation shares a common ethos and draw inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of this proud state. Together, we aim to achieve our shared goals and make the people of Tamil Nadu proud in the years to come.”

    This collaboration aims to blend Ramraj Cotton’s fundamental values with Chennaiyin FC’s unbridled, never-say-die spirit and enhance brand visibility and engagement for both entities.

    “This association marks a significant milestone for Ramraj Cotton, allowing us to celebrate and promote the cultural richness of our home state, Tamil Nadu. Partnering with Chennaiyin Football Club, a team that resonates with our values of quality, tradition, and innovation, aligns perfectly with our brand’s journey from a local textile brand to a global icon. Just as Ramraj Cotton has woven tradition with modernity, Chennaiyin FC has skillfully blended local talent with international flair, creating a formidable presence on the football field.

    We believe this collaboration is not just about supporting a successful club but also about celebrating our shared cultural heritage and passion for excellence. Together, we aim to create a lasting impact in the world of sports and fashion, enriching the lives of our community and fans. We look forward to a fruitful partnership that will set new standards in sportsmanship and community engagement,” commented Ramraj Cotton Group founder chairman K R Nagarajan.

    Chennaiyin FC have kickstarted their 2024-25 season with the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup. They have been drawn in group D alongside Jamshedpur FC, Indian Army, and Assam Rifles, and will play all of their group matches at Jamshedpur’s JRD Tata Sports Complex Stadium.

  • Chennaiyin FC & Norwich City FC Collaborate for Football Development and Global Outreach

    Chennaiyin FC & Norwich City FC Collaborate for Football Development and Global Outreach

    Mumbai: Chennaiyin FC and English football club Norwich City FC are delighted to announce a strategic partnership aimed at fostering mutual growth, innovation, and collaboration in football. This partnership brings together two esteemed football clubs from different parts of the world, united in their commitment to excellence on and off the pitch.

    A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the clubs on Wednesday in Chennai during a press conference that was attended by Ekansh Gupta, Vice President of Chennaiyin FC, alongside Sam Jeffery, Commercial Director at Norwich City FC.

    Chennaiyin FC and Norwich City FC bring to the partnership a wealth of experience, expertise, and unique footballing philosophies. By joining forces, the clubs will create a platform for the exchange of knowledge, technical expertise, coaching methodologies, and player development strategies.

    “We are delighted to unveil our collaboration with Norwich City. Let me be clear: this is far from a mere marketing ploy. We anticipate significant advancements for our developmental teams through this partnership. I am confident that we can assist Norwich City in achieving their aim of establishing a presence within the Indian sports ecosystem,” commented Chennaiyin FC vice president Ekansh Gupta.

    Both Chennaiyin FC and Norwich City FC are led by women entrepreneurs, Vita Dani and Delia Smith, who are focused on harnessing the power of the sport and developing local talent.

    Commenting on the partnership Norwich City FC commercial director Sam Jeffery said: “This is an extremely exciting moment for Norwich City as we enter into our partnership with Chennaiyin FC, and with it the Indian football market.

    “India has the fastest growing sports economy in the world, and football is the fastest growing participation sport here too. We believe there’s significant commercial opportunity in this fantastic part of the world, and we’re really excited to build a mutually beneficial and culturally authentic collaboration with our friends at Chennaiyin FC.”

    Chennaiyin FC brings to the partnership a deep understanding of the Indian football landscape, offering valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities of operating in this market. Additionally, the club is eager to facilitate cultural exchange programs and collaborate on joint marketing initiatives to engage diverse audiences and promote the vision of both clubs.

    Norwich City FC’s technical expertise and involvement in workshops and seminars will play a crucial role in enhancing coaching standards and methodologies at Chennaiyin FC. Active participation in youth development programs, including talent identification processes and coaching clinics, will further strengthen the impact of the partnership.

    Periodic friendly matches and training camps organised by both clubs will provide valuable exposure to players and contribute to the growth of football in their respective regions.

    Norwich City have won the League Cup twice, in 1961-62 and 1984-85, and finished third in the 1992-93 season of the English Premier League. They also clinched the EFL Championship title in the 2018-19, and 2020-21 seasons. They are currently in sixth position in the ongoing season of the Championship, keeping themselves in the race for a Premier League promotion.

    Chennaiyin FC are currently competing in the ISL 2023-24 with their next match scheduled against Jamshedpur FC in Chennai on Thursday, their hopes for a top-six finish, are very much alive. 

  • Chennaiyin FC ink partnership with Polyhose as official presenting sponsor

    Chennaiyin FC ink partnership with Polyhose as official presenting sponsor

    Mumbai: Chennaiyin FC has roped in Polyhose, a diversified industrial conglomerate, as the club’s official presenting sponsor for the upcoming 2023-24 Indian football season.

    The strategic partnership will allow Polyhose to leverage the widespread popularity of Chennaiyin FC to build a positive brand recall and affinity amongst CFC fans. The association is also set to reinforce Polyhose’s presence in the key market of Tamil Nadu and promote its commitment to innovation and engagement with stakeholders.

    “We are delighted to welcome Polyhose as Chennaiyin FC’s presenting sponsor. Their commitment to contributing to the growth of the sport is exemplary, and we look forward to achieving great success together both on and off the field. This partnership is a testament to the strength of football in Tamil Nadu and the growth potential it holds,” stated Chennaiyin FC vice-president Ekansh Gupta.

    Headquartered in Chennai, Polyhose has established global footprints with a presence in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, South Africa and Australia. As part of the partnership, the company’s logo will be featured on the back of the Chennaiyin FC jersey while the H Stand inside the team’s home turf at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will be renamed as the Polyhose Stand.

    “We are pleased to announce the sponsorship of Chennaiyin FC, to support the football team and create electrifying moments for Chennai Fans. We’re big football fans who are proud of the growth of our local team, so sponsoring the club this season was a great choice. Through this collaboration, the two organizations share common goals of commitment to excellence and innovation while offering a wide range of unique and special experiences in this season. Wishing good luck to the entire team,” Polyhose managing director Shabbir YJ.

    To make the association even more exciting, the kids of Polyhose’s employees will have the unique opportunity to walk out with Chennaiyin FC players during three home matches in the season, creating a memorable experience for them.

    Chennaiyin FC will be in action on Saturday when they host Mohun Bagan Super Giant in their first home match of the Indian Super League 2023-24 season.

  • Chennaiyin FC renews four-year partnership with ACKO as associate sponsor

    Chennaiyin FC renews four-year partnership with ACKO as associate sponsor

    Mumbai: Chennaiyin FC have renewed their long-standing association with ACKO as the team’s associate sponsor for the 2023-24 Indian football season.

    The partnership enters its fourth year and is a testament to the commitment and shared values of both organisations.

    “We are delighted to have ACKO by our side for another season. Their commitment to fostering talent at the grassroots level and bringing fans closer to the club has been commendable. We are excited about embarking on a journey to accomplish shared milestones in the upcoming season,” commented Chennaiyin FC vice-president Ekansh Gupta.

    Founded in 2016 as India’s first digital insurer, ACKO is currently the fastest-growing insurance company in the country. As a long-term partner, ACKO has been a staunch supporter of Chennaiyin FC, actively engaging and offering holistic support for Chennaiyin FC’s various endeavours.

    Through its partnership with Chennaiyin FC, ACKO has been able to expand its footprint and succeed in Tamil Nadu. The association aims to not only provide fans with unique experiences but also enhance brand recall and affinity among the loyal and passionate fan base of Marina Machans.

    “We are glad to extend our partnership with Chennaiyin FC and support this beloved football team. We are looking to build on our association from previous years and increase further engagement with the fan groups of CFC. This collaboration underscores ACKO’s unwavering commitment to fostering trust and genuine connections with the city and its people. Chennai remains a pivotal market in our expansion journey and this partnership continues to be a key ingredient of weaving ourselves into the cultural fabric of the city,” ACKO senior director of marketing Nitin Khanna opined.  

    An important facet of the partnership will be the naming of the B Stand at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai, which seats one of the club’s loyal fan groups, to the ‘ACKO Stand’.

    Chennaiyin FC are scheduled to play their second match of the Indian Super League 2023-24 season against NorthEast United FC in Guwahati on Friday.

     

  • Humans of Bombay becomes the storytelling partner of Chennaiyin FC 

    Humans of Bombay becomes the storytelling partner of Chennaiyin FC 

    Mumbai: Chennaiyin FC has signed the popular storytelling platform, Humans of Bombay, as their official storytelling partner for the on-going 2022–23 season.

    The partnership intends to bring the Chennaiyin fans closer, bolstering their bond with Marina Machans.

    The two-time Hero Indian Super League champions and Humans of Bombay will collaborate for a year to bring out the fascinating stories of their champion players, coaches, and stakeholders while also shining a light on the ups and downs of their journey.

    Established in 2014 by Karishma Mehta, Humans of Bombay showcases the unique, inspirational, and relatable stories of individuals from all walks of life. With a community of over 4.5 million people, the platform has lent voice to the voiceless with more than 6,000 stories so far.

    Speaking about this partnership, Humans of Bombay founder Karishma Mehta said, “We strongly believe that sport gives birth to some of the greatest stories. And from our interactions with the team until now, we’ve found some fascinating stories of grit and determination. We’re grateful that we can extend our expertise to bring forth these inspiring and heartwarming stories from Chennaiyin FC to the fans and our community. Fans will be able to see their players, coaches, and stakeholders from a very personal lens, and we hope our storytelling strengthens their bond with the team. Stories have the power to inspire a generation, and we hope to do that; it’s time for India to participate on a much larger scale in the sporting world, and that effort to become truly global begins here.”

    Chennaiyin FC have secured two victories and a draw from their five games so far in the on-going Hero ISL season. They will next take on Jamshedpur FC in a home fixture at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai on Saturday.

  • FairPlay Sports announces collaboration with Indian footballers Gurpreet Singh Sandhu & Sandesh Jhingan

    FairPlay Sports announces collaboration with Indian footballers Gurpreet Singh Sandhu & Sandesh Jhingan

    Mumbai: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Sandesh Jhingan, both Indian footballers, have signed with the Delhi-based sports marketing agency FairPlay Sports.

    The new signings will further boost FairPlay Sports’ roster, which already includes Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri, Chennaiyin FC captain Anirudh Thapa, ATKMB winger Ashique Kuruniyan and ATKMB forward Manvir Singh, among others.

    FairPlay Sports co-founder Bandana Chhetri said, “Both Gurpreet and Sandesh are key figures in Indian football. Additionally, both are massive fan favourites because of their style of play and intensity on the field. As an agency, we have always had a focus on football and footballers because it has a lot of potential for growth. We want to provide footballers with the opportunity and support they need off the field so they can maximise their potential on it.”

    Talking about the same, the national team goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu said, “I am thrilled to get on board with FairPlay Sports. I’ve known the people behind it for some time now and am excited at all the possibilities being part of the FairPlay team will bring.”

    Indian defender Sandesh Jhingan added, “I am happy to have signed with FairPlay Sports, who I feel do a fantastic job with all athlete-related aspects beyond the pitch. I’m looking forward to all the exciting opportunities that come out of this association.”

  • Chennaiyin FC introduces official ‘club membership’ on BookMyShow

    Chennaiyin FC introduces official ‘club membership’ on BookMyShow

    Mumbai: After two years, fans will return to the Marina Arena to support Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League (ISL). In a bid to celebrate the occasion and welcome their fans, Chennaiyin have introduced a club membership ahead of the 2022/23 Indian football season. This enables the fans to engage with the club better. The membership will be available across two categories: Gold and Silver. The official membership will be available exclusively on BookMyShow till 17 September, 2023.

    The membership card of both packages can be utilised as a match ticket that provides members with access to all ten Hero Indian Super League phase games at the Marina Arena at the cost of eight. Both packages also include a personalised membership card that reflects the member’s respective tier in addition to their name.

    The Gold Membership card offers the fans additional luxuries which include:

        A personalised 2022/23 CFC Home Jersey with the member’s name and number printed.

        Access to one senior team training session followed by meet & greet with CFC players.

        20 per cent discount on official CFC fan wear by Suditi and a 25 per cent discount on official CFC merchandise by fully filmy.

        CFC soccer schools voucher.

        Vouchers from CFC sponsors and partners.

    Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani said, “Through this initiative, the two-time ISL champions aim to build bridges between the club and its fans and help them become more than just spectators.”

    Chennaiyin FC will kick off their campaign for the new season against ATK Mohun Bagan in Kolkata on 10 October, followed by the much awaited clash against Bengaluru FC at the Marina Arena on 14 October.

  • Chennaiyin FC onboards GenX as associate sponsor for the upcoming season

    Chennaiyin FC onboards GenX as associate sponsor for the upcoming season

    Mumbai: Two-time hero of the Indian Super League (ISL), Chennaiyin Football Club (CFC) announced men’s innerwear and athleisure brand GenX as the club’s associate sponsor for the 2022-23 Indian football season.

    This partnership will see GenX utilise various marketing rights in order to engage with the passionate fan base of the club. The brand’s logo will feature on the front of all match and training kits of the Marina Machans below the neck throughout the season.

    GenX, an affiliate of Lux Industries, is a range of men’s athleisure and innerwear manufactured by J.M. Hosiery and Company. This is their first association with a major football club.

    Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani said, “GenX is a youth-centric addition to the Lux Industries’ JM Hosiery Group and is a homegrown brand from Tirupur. We at Chennaiyin FC welcome them on board in what is going to be a special season back home at the Marina Arena. We have always enjoyed working with Tamil Nadu-based brands, and look forward to a fruitful association with GenX.”

    “We are thrilled to join the Chennaiyan FC family as a sponsor and collaborate with a club that has a legacy of winning the ISL and inspiring individuals,” said Lux Industries director Navin Kumar Todi.

    He added, “As GenX is a youth brand catering to men, we believe that this opportunity is ideal to engage with our target audience. GenX, the brand that deals with innerwear, casual wear, and athleisure wear, has been expanding rapidly, and we are optimistic that this association will enable us to expand our consumer base and accelerate growth. Together, we are confident in our ability to excite the Chennaiyin FC fans this season. We look forward to a great season for the club and wish them the best of luck!”

    Chennaiyin FC will kick off their campaign for the new season against ATK Mohun Bagan on 10 October, followed by a clash against Bengaluru FC at the Marina Arena on 14 October.

  • Acko extends partnership with Chennaiyin FC as associate sponsors

    Acko extends partnership with Chennaiyin FC as associate sponsors

    Mumbai: Two-time Indian Super League (ISL) champions Chennaiyin FC (CFC) has extended its association with digital insurer Acko General Insurance as an associate sponsor on a multi-year deal.

    CFC and Acko shared a fruitful association after joining hands for the first time in the 2020/21 season of the football league. Through this partnership, CFC along with Acko will look to strengthen their association and engage with the former’s passionate fan base across the country, said the statement.

    The association will be amplified with a 360-degree campaign across television, digital content and social media integrations. To drive fan engagement, Acko will also work with CFC to bring fans closer to the club as the ISL will be hosted once again in Goa in a bio bubble, it added.

    “After a successful first year of the partnership last season, we’re glad to welcome Acko General Insurance back as part of the CFC family,” said CFC co-owner Vita Dani. “The faith that Acko has displayed in Chennaiyin FC is clear in the multi-year renewal that the brand has chosen to enter into with the club.”

    As a part of the deal, Acko’s logo will feature on the right chest position of CFC’s kit. Through this association, both brands will work together to solidify their brand narrative that highlights ‘trust’ as a key factor while buying insurance and on the football pitch.

    “Last year, we created some mini-game screenings to help the fans of CFC watch their favourite football team and we are hoping to increase further engagement with the fans,” said Acko General Insurance executive vice president of marketing Ashish Mishra. “CFC and Acko, in association with Akshaya Patra, have also undertaken various local initiatives to help the people of Chennai during the times of Covid-19.”