BYD to Sponsor Bahia and Vitória Football Clubs Starting 2026

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is set to enter Brazilian football sponsorship by negotiating joint deals with two Bahia-based clubs, Bahia and Vitória, beginning in 2026. The negotiations come after BYD’s recent global partnership with Manchester City and reflect its strategic push into football marketing. The company plans to invest similar amounts in both clubs during the first half of 2026, though the exact financial figures remain confidential.

Bahia has been without a master sponsor since January 17 following the amicable end of its contract with Viva Sorte Bet, making it receptive to BYD’s proposal. Vitória, however, currently holds a master sponsorship contract with 7K Bet and another sleeve deal with Viva Sorte Capitalization. Vitória has so far rejected BYD's initial offer as it was deemed below market value. BYD continues to seek a compromise to finalize a joint sponsorship deal covering both clubs, which previously shared a sponsor from 2009 to 2013.

BYD’s interest is closely tied to its operations in Brazil, as the company has sold over 200,000 electric vehicles in the country since April 2022 and runs a manufacturing plant in Camaçari, Bahia. This move to support local football teams highlights a new direction for BYD’s global marketing strategy, which previously avoided football-related sponsorships. The partnership would strengthen BYD’s brand presence in the region while giving both clubs new financial backing.