Inter Milan and Mastercard: A Partnership Driven by Innovation, Inclusion and Priceless Experiences

In 2018, Inter Milan and Mastercard launched a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the fan experience and promoting social impact through football. What began as a two-year collaboration quickly evolved into a multi-dimensional relationship encompassing men’s and women’s football, digital innovation, and community engagement.

Both brands aligned over shared values of innovation, inclusion, and emotional connection. Their joint campaigns have since reflected not just commercial objectives, but also broader societal goals.

Enhancing Stadium Experiences Through Technology

A core element of the partnership was innovation at San Siro. Mastercard introduced seamless digital ticketing and contactless payments, providing fans with faster stadium entry and simplified in-stadium purchases during Serie A and Coppa Italia fixtures. Through the official Inter app, supporters could access matchday services, receive special offers, and interact with exclusive content.

This digital transformation was aimed at enhancing matchday engagement while positioning Inter as a forward-thinking club in terms of tech-driven fan experience.

Social Impact: From Bondy to Milan to the World

The Inter x Mastercard collaboration also embraced social responsibility. Both partners actively launched initiatives supporting vulnerable communities.

• Mastercard, through its long-standing association with the World Food Programme, brought global CSR expertise.

• Inter, via “Inter in the Community,” delivered local outreach programs focused on education and access to sport.

Joint fundraising campaigns, awareness projects, and inclusive football programs reflected the evolving role of clubs and sponsors in tackling social inequality.

‘Priceless’ Fan Activations and Emotional Marketing

A signature strength of Mastercard’s global campaigns – the concept of ‘Priceless’ – found a natural home at Inter.

• Young fans walked out on the pitch alongside players before kick-off.
• Supporters had the opportunity to win exclusive away-match travel packages and training ground tours.
• Special “Meet & Greet” events with Inter legends brought unforgettable memories to fans and cardholders.

These experiential marketing activations were carefully designed to increase fan loyalty and brand equity, while connecting emotionally with global audiences.

Inter Women x Mastercard: Empowering the Future

In 2021, the partnership expanded to Inter Women – a milestone move that underlined both brands’ commitment to gender equality in football.

Mastercard became the official front-of-shirt sponsor for the women’s team in Serie A and Coppa Italia. The extension of the deal signaled a long-term investment in women’s sport, both from a visibility and a values-driven perspective.

The collaboration also included ambassador-led campaigns aimed at promoting inclusion, respect, and empowerment on and off the pitch.

Shared Values and Modern Brand Alignment

For Inter, teaming up with Mastercard has gone beyond sponsorship. It has become a long-term alliance built on shared ideals. Both brands use football not only to drive business outcomes but also to champion diversity, education, and access to opportunities.

“We’re proud to see Mastercard’s logo on the Inter Women jersey — a symbol of values we believe in: inclusion, fairness, and progress,” said Inter CEO Alessandro Antonello.

“With just one pass or goal, football can create priceless moments. That’s the emotion we want to share,” added Michele Centemero, Mastercard Country Manager Italy.

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