Global football icon Lionel Messi and Budweiser have announced a long-term partnership. Admired by fans and respected by rivals, the King of Beers is celebrating Messi’s journey to the pinnacle of global football, defined by his commitment and relentless determination to both his teammates and craft.
“I’m excited to partner with Budweiser to share my journey that was based on a determination to be the best player I can be. Day after day, year after year, it took sacrifice and hard work to reach my dreams. Hopefully fans around the world will find inspiration in my story to commit to their craft and never give up on greatness, no matter how hard the journey,” says top football player, Lionel Messi.
To introduce the collaboration, Messi and Budweiser have released a provocative film designed to inspire fans to never give up on greatness by highlighting Messi’s journey of self-belief as he heads into his 20th professional season, titled “They Say”.
The film also reveals the soon to be released limited-edition Lionel Messi bottle, which will also be available in South Africa. The intricately designed label celebrates the La Liga legend’s core values along with an original quote on what it takes to fulfill your potential: “life is about choices, sacrifices, determination and hard work”. It’s these attributes that Budweiser believes sets Messi apart as the world’s greatest player and makes him so widely respected both on and off the field.
Over 19 years and counting with one club, Messi has journeyed to the top of global football from humble beginnings in Argentina. He wasn’t born the best but his relentless commitment to football and his ambition to be the greatest has seen him rise to the top of the game. He is the most awarded footballer of his generation and his accolades include a record-breaking six Ballon d’Ors, ten league titles, six domestic cup victories, four European Cups, all-time top scorer in La Liga and the first player in history to win six European Golden Boots.
These shared values are also reflected in Budweiser’s own history and relentless pursuit of craft. Founded by the ambition of Adolphus Busch to create the world’s best American lager, Budweiser started out as a small brewery in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. Through commitment to its craft and loyalty to the brewing process for over 140 years, Budweiser has become the world’s most popular beer.
Said Thomas Lawrence, Marketing Manager Budweiser Africa – “It’s wonderful that South Africa has been included in this global rollout and recognised as a country in which Messi and football have a special place. Messi’ dedication and commitment to his craft reflect the same self-belief that has led Budweiser to become the King of Beers. With the season kicking off this Saturday (September 12th), this is just the first of a number of Premier League and LaLiga initiatives that we are bringing to South Africa.”
Lionel Messi is the newest partner for Budweiser joining fellow greats of the game on their roster including La Liga stars Sergio Ramos and Marcelo. Budweiser’s football portfolio includes multi-year partnerships with La Liga and the Premier League, two of the top internationally reaching football leagues. Budweiser is also a 30+ year partner with FIFA World Cup™.
The Messi edition bottle is available at select bars and retailers now across nine markets: India, Columbia, Argentina, Chile, China, Vietnam, Spain, Russia and South Africa.
Exclusive merchandise and special memorabilia will also be available in SA throughout the Messi campaign.
