Ahead of the 2026 season, American Express is now the official payments partner of the NFL.
With this new deal inked, Amex replaces Visa — which has been a long-term corporate sponsor of the NFL since 1995.
Amex’s global multiyear partnership will bring tickets, experiences and perks for card members and football fans for events throughout the pre- and post-season, including NFL International Games. Moreover, Amex said that during tentpole events such as the NFL draft and Super Bowl, members will have access to on-site activations, special offers and promotions throughout the year.
In early March, Amex revealed it was the official payments partner for MetLife Stadium, the New York Giants and Jets, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, alongside the new National Women’s Soccer League team as an inaugural partner.
At the upcoming NFL draft to be held in Pittsburgh, Amex will host a pop-up for fan experiences and offering card member priority lane lines at a selection of NFL-operated experiences. Later this year, the NFL and American Express will unveil a new joint company credit card called the NFL Extra Points American Express credit card to allow U.S. fans the opportunity to earn more rewards on game tickets and merchandise.
“Partnering with American Express brings even more momentum to the NFL’s efforts to deliver world‑class experiences to fans around the globe,” said Renie Anderson, executive vice president and chief revenue officer of the NFL. “This collaboration will allow us to expand access to unforgettable moments, from international games and tentpole events such as the draft and Super Bowl to enhanced on‑site experiences and presale opportunities. American Express has a proven track record of elevating major sports moments, and together we’ll provide our fans and their card members with more ways than ever to engage with the sport they love.”
American Express said this deal builds on its partnerships with the company’s roster of more than 50 sports leagues, venues, teams and events around the world, including Formula 1, NBA, WNBA, U.S. Open for tennis and the U.S. Open golf for men’s and women’s. Moreover, the company said it will be helping the NFL by expanding its global reach through its Amex presale tickets for all of its league-owned International Games and with local activations.
Amex pointed to a recent survey of its consumer card members for its continued expansion — with 80 percent reporting that they’re sports fans and 70 percent are NFL fans.
“Sports are central to our legacy — our portfolio includes some of the most popular leagues, teams and events while bringing our card members closer to the games they love,” said Elizabeth Rutledge, chief marketing officer at American Express. “Partnering with the NFL is a natural extension for us and our commitment to delivering meaningful perks, exclusive access and elevated experiences. Our card members are football fans and we’re proud to deepen that connection in ways that add even greater value to American Express membership.”







