Circle Secures Historic Premier League Sponsorship with Chelsea FC

Circle Internet Group has partnered with Chelsea FC to become the principal front-of-shirt sponsor for the Premier League club, starting from the 2026/27 season. The deal sees USDC branding appear on Chelsea's Men's, Women's, and Academy shirts. This marks a historic first for the Premier League as Circle becomes the first crypto financial services company to hold a principal shirt sponsorship.

The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it was reported that Chelsea was targeting £65 million ($88.3 million) per year for the slot. Circle's CEO Jeremy Allaire framed the partnership as a natural fit, stating that USDC is built on the belief that money should work seamlessly for everyone everywhere.

Circle holds an e-money license from the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), clearing a key regulatory hurdle for the deal. Chelsea President Jason Gannon called the partnership a step towards 'football's digital evolution'. The first Premier League game featuring the new kit is this Sunday against Brighton at Stamford Bridge.