#United States #Chipotle #Newport Beach #Student Athletes #College Nutrition

Chipotle Partners with Colleges to Fuel Athletes with Healthy Meals

In an exciting initiative aimed at supporting college athletes, Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced a partnership with three prestigious universities: The Ohio State University, the University of Florida, and the University of Georgia. Starting from the 2025-26 academic year, student athletes at these institutions will receive customized cards that grant them free Chipotle meals during their respective athletic seasons.

A Game-Changer for Student Athletes

This program is set to benefit nearly 2,000 scholarship and walk-on athletes, reinforcing Chipotle's commitment to providing nutritious meals that enhance performance on and off the field. Each athlete will receive a special card allowing one free entrée per week for 15 weeks, ensuring they have access to real food that supports their training regimen.

The athletes at these universities have shown a passionate affinity for Chipotle’s offerings. Recent surveys indicated that 98% of Ohio State student athletes enjoy Chipotle at least once a month, while 94% of Florida athletes list it among their top three favorite restaurants. Additionally, about 80% of those from Georgia believe Chipotle plays a significant role in their nutritional foundation.

Chris Brandt, Chipotle's President and Chief Brand Officer, expressed enthusiasm about expanding their college card program. “By democratizing NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) benefits, we not only support student athletes but also enhance their access to healthy, nutritious meals when they need it most. Our restaurants are often filled with athletes looking for quick, wholesome meals, and we strive to meet that demand,” he said.

Celebrating Tradition and Legacy

In tandem with the announcement, Chipotle has launched two new advertisements celebrating the spirit of college football through the lens of student athletes. One ad features players from The Ohio State University, including Caleb Downs, Sonny Styles, and Carnell Tate, showcasing their determination to repeat their previous season's success. Another ad features the University of Florida quarterback DJ Lagway alongside former basketball star Walter Clayton Jr., illuminating the passing of the torch between Gator legends.

Links to these dynamic ads can be found here for Ohio State and here for Florida.

Supporting the Future of Agriculture

Apart from serving meals, Chipotle's commitment extends to educational initiatives. The Chipotle Cultivate Foundation has introduced a four-year scholarship program for in-state students enrolled in The Ohio State University's College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. This scholarship will cover full tuition for those pursuing agricultural degrees, showcasing Chipotle's dedication to fostering the next generation of food industry leaders.

Additionally, the foundation is providing $100,000 in undergraduate research awards for students involved in agricultural research at the University of Florida, further highlighting Chipotle's ambition to support the future of farming and sustainable sourcing.

Conclusion

As Chipotle expands its reach and influence within college athletics, it is not just about serving food; it’s about creating meaningful opportunities for student athletes and emphasizing the importance of nutrition in their performance. The collaboration with elite programs like Ohio State, Florida, and Georgia marks a significant step in promoting real food for real athletes, paving the way for healthier lifestyles and enhanced athletic success.

For more information about Chipotle and its initiatives, visit CHIPOTLE.COM.