Qatar Airways, the esteemed national carrier of the State of Qatar, has announced a significant partnership with top-tier Italian football team FC Internazionale Milano (Inter), becoming the club’s Official Global Airline Partner.
This collaboration was officially unveiled at the Dubai Airshow 2023 by Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Al Meer, and members of Inter’s executive team.
This multi-year agreement extends beyond traditional sports sponsorships, encompassing branding, hospitality, and marketing rights, as well as providing tailored travel solutions for Inter fans. The partnership signifies Qatar Airways’ commitment to expanding its presence across Italy and Europe, regions of critical importance to the airline. Additionally, the agreement includes rights with various Qatar Airways subsidiaries, such as Hamad International Airport as the ‘Official Airport’, Qatar Duty Free as the ‘Official Duty-Free’, Qatar Airways Privilege Club as the ‘Official Frequent Flyer Programme’, and Qatar Airways Holidays as the ‘Official Fan Travel Partner’ in Qatar.
The second day of the Dubai Airshow saw Engr. Badr Al Meer hosting the Inter executive team for a tour of Qatar Airways’ aircraft, including the Business Class suite on the Boeing 787-9, the Qsuite on the Airbus A350-1000, and the Gulfstream G650ER private jet. The event was further elevated by the appearance of Inter Legend and FIFA World CupTM champion, Marco Materazzi.
Engr. Badr Al Meer expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Qatar Airways’ long-standing relationship with Milan since 2002 and its value as one of the airline’s most crucial markets. This partnership aims to deepen Qatar Airways’ ties with Milan and extend its reach across Europe and Asia, leveraging Inter’s vast fanbase.
Alessandro Antonello, CEO Corporate of FC Internazionale Milano, also emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership, acknowledging Qatar Airways as a global partner that resonates with Inter’s values and expansive fanbase. This collaboration is expected to support Qatar Airways in its business development efforts.
In celebration of this partnership, Qatar Airways Privilege Club will offer Inter fans discounts on flight fares to watch the team at San Siro Stadium. Additionally, Qatar Duty Free is set to enhance its luxury standards, leveraging its 2023 “Airport Retailer of the Year” recognition by the Frontier Awards through this distinguished sponsorship.
The partnership also extends to Qatar Tourism, symbolizing the shared vision between the two entities and promoting strong relations between Italy and Qatar. This aligns with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Inter, with its impressive history of 19 Serie A, three UEFA Champions League, and eight Italian Cup wins, represents excellence in football. The club’s motto, “We are brothers and sisters of the world,” resonates with Qatar Airways’ mission of uniting the world through sports.
Qatar Airways currently operates from two airports in Italy, with plans to increase its flights to Rome in January 2024, further solidifying this partnership’s potential impact.
