U.S. Soccer and Purina Unite to Celebrate Pet and Fan Connections in Sports

U.S. Soccer and Purina Join Forces to Celebrate Pet-Fan Bond

In a landmark collaboration, the U.S. Soccer Federation has teamed up with Purina, marking a new chapter in the partnership between sports and pet care. This initiative aims to highlight the unwavering support pets provide to both fans and players, creating a vibrant community that thrives on joy, energy, and love for the game.

The announcement was made in Atlanta, where both entities expressed their commitment to honoring the unique bond between soccer enthusiasts and their furry companions. As Purina takes on the role of U.S. Soccer's first-ever Official Pet Care Partner, the partnership underscores a common goal: enhancing the lives of people and pets alike.

"Soccer is much more than just a sport; it's about shared experiences," stated David Wright, Chief Commercial Officer of U.S. Soccer. He connects personally, noting how his dogs have enriched his family's life. This partnership signifies U.S. Soccer’s aim to foster a sense of community not only among sports fans but also among pet owners, representing a fusion of two loves—soccer and our four-legged friends.

The collaboration will extend through 2030 and comes at a crucial time as the U.S. gears up to host major international soccer events, including the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. As global attention shifts to soccer in the United States, Purina and U.S. Soccer are committed to showcasing the values that unite them: community, joy, and support. Through various initiatives, they plan to highlight how pets enhance the lives of their owners during this pivotal era for the sport.

Purina will enjoy a multitude of exclusive rights over diverse categories such as pet food, treats, supplements, and even adoption initiatives. Fans can look forward to an exciting range of activities centered on this partnership, which will include a national creative campaign celebrating the bond between humans and pets. Events will also feature custom player-and-pet content, co-branded merchandise, and pet-centric experiences, ensuring fans feel included in every aspect of the beautiful game.

In a statement, Andrea Faccio, President and Chief Growth Officer of Purina, shared, "We will emphasize the role pets play as crucial companions to both fans and players, promoting overall mental and physical well-being." The excitement surrounding Purina's involvement will be immediate, with the first showcase taking place during a U.S. Men's National Team friendly against Korea on September 6. The event will feature the Purina Club, an engaging in-stadium experience designed to welcome pet owners and their dogs.

Moreover, a special halftime performance will be staged by Purina's Incredible Dog Team during a subsequent friendly against Japan, promising to enchant the audience while reinforcing the connection between two passionate fanbases—soccer lovers and pet enthusiasts.

This partnership marks an innovative and heartwarming approach to sports marketing, inviting fans to include their pets as part of their soccer journey. By promoting pet adoption and engagement, U.S. Soccer and Purina are redefining how sports and community interaction can manifest in our lives.

As U.S. Soccer enters one of its most exciting periods in history, this partnership with Purina adds a unique, joyful element to the journey ahead. Together they will highlight the profound impact pets have in uniting soccer enthusiasts, creating rituals that include furry friends in pre-game traditions and post-match celebrations.

The U.S. Soccer Federation, founded in 1913, functions as the official governing body for soccer in the nation, with a mission to serve the game and ignite national enthusiasm for it. Purina, with a commitment to improving the lives of pets and their owners since its establishment in 1894, stands as a leader in the pet care sector, nourishing over 46 million dogs and 68 million cats annually.

In conclusion, this collaboration is poised to elevate the sport of soccer and the essence of pet love to unprecedented heights, celebrating the intertwined lives of pet owners and sports fans everywhere. Fans can eagerly anticipate a new era of soccer where pets are not just spectators but active participants in the game.

For anyone interested in following the journey of this delightful partnership, further updates will be shared leading up to the World Cup and other exciting events planned for the future.