Sporting Kansas City announced on Apr. 27 a new partnership campaign to celebrate the Soccer Capital of America, introducing co-branded activations throughout the region ahead of a major international soccer event set to begin in Kansas City this summer.
The initiative aims to engage fans and showcase local pride as global attention turns to the city. Sporting Kansas City Vice President of Corporate Partnerships Jon Moses said, “Just like all of us at Sporting Kansas City, our portfolio of corporate partners are also incredibly excited to maximize this historic opportunity to showcase the Soccer Capital of America on a global stage. We are thrilled to be able to offer a bespoke platform that provides partners with a highly valuable asset in the Soccer Capital of America IP as part of a strategic creative campaign that can be fully customized for activations which not only promote our partnerships, but also capture the civic pride we share in Kansas City and our collective passion for continuing to grow the sport of soccer together.”
Several corporate partners will participate with unique offerings. Price Chopper is hosting family-friendly “Kickoff to the Cup” events at locations in Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and Lenexa featuring giveaways and activities. Central Bank has introduced a limited-edition debit card and will collaborate with Sporting Style for merchandise pop-up shops inside branches starting May 1. UMB is commissioning a live mural experience by artist Phil “Sike Style” Shafer at Sporting Park, with support from Westlake Ace Hardware; the finished artwork will be unveiled during an event on July 22.
Russell Stover Chocolates has created an exclusive heart-shaped gift box available only in select Kansas City locations and online. Parisi Coffee plans an unveiling event for its Limited Release Official Soccer Capital coffee blend on May 7 at Union Station’s Parisi Café, offering free samples during launch hours.
Nissan designed a special wrap for its 2026 Nissan Rogue SUV that will appear at community events and home games throughout summer via Sporting KC’s street team. Other participating partners include Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, Coca-Cola, CORE Equipment, Great Clips, Hollywood Casino, Hotel Kansas City, Planet Fitness Kansas City and Tito’s Handmade Vodka—each contributing various fan engagement initiatives such as rally towels or sweepstakes.
The broader campaign allows these brands inclusion in “Soccer Capital Summer,” which features public watch parties and concerts at Sporting Park with free admission upon advance registration. The venue now includes upgraded facilities such as enhanced entry gates and an expanded plaza area featuring a large video screen above an entertainment stage.