West Ham Signs First Esports Partner
West Ham has announced financial services company Basset & Gold as its new sleeve sponsor and first esports partner.
As part of the deal, whose length and value have not been disclosed, Basset & Gold’s emblem will appear on the sleeve of the West Ham men’s, academy and under-23 teams next season.
It follows the announcement of US brand Kohler as Manchester United’s first sleeve sponsor in a reported £20m deal.
West Ham’s new deal will also see Basset & Gold become the club’s first esports partner. The London outfit has been among the most active UK clubs in embracing esports. It currently has two FIFA esports players on its roster, having become the first UK football team to enter esports in 2016.
The Basset & Gold partnership is expected to prioritise collaboration on local community initiatives and fan engagement projects.
Commenting on the agreement, West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady said: “What really appealed to us was their commitment to working and engaging with our fans in east London and the local community.
“Our fans are at the heart of everything we do and we wanted to partner with someone who understands that and mirrors that commitment in their own work.
“Both partners are determined to achieve success next season and we cannot wait to launch our partnership through some incredible activations for our fans.”
