Trading Cards: Amercan Express Replaces Visa As NFL Official Payments Partner
Monday, March 30, 2026 at 04:09PM By Barry Janoff
March 30, 2026: Calling it an alliance to “bring even more momentum to the NFL’s efforts to deliver world‑class experiences to fans around the globe,” the league has signed a multi-year global deal .naming American Express as its “official payments partner.
Financial terms of the pact, which begins beginning with the 2026 NFL season, were not shared.
Industry analysts valued it at more than $900 million over seven years.
American Express replaces Visa in the category, which this past September said it would now renew its three-decade long alliance with the league when it expired in March 2026, choosing to “invest in team, player and creator partnerships that it says better align with its marketing strategy,” Frank Cooper Visa CMO said via Reuters.
AmEx’s first public activation under the new deal will be at the NFL Draft April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
The NFL and AmEx said the partnership would bring “American Express’ incredible experiences, ticket access and perks to card members and football fans around the world, at select events from the preseason to the postseason, including NFL International Games.
“At tentpole events including the NFL Draft and Super Bowl, American Express card members will have access to on-site activations along with special offers and promotions at other NFL moments throughout the year.”
“Partnering with American Express brings even more momentum to the NFL’s efforts to deliver world‑class experiences to fans around the globe,” Renie Anderson, NFL evp/chief revenue fficer, said via the league.
“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.
At the NFL Draft, American Express said it plans to “pop up with an open-to-all fan experience and card member priority lanes for select NFL operated experiences..”
Eligible card members can make a reservation to enjoy a session in the Card Member Lounge and can enroll an eligible card in an offer for purchases at NFL Shop locations on-site at the NFL Draft. (Lounge reservations are limited.)
“Partnering with American Express brings even more momentum to the NFL’s efforts to deliver world‑class experiences to fans."
Later this year, AmEx and the NFL plan to introduce the NFL Extra Points American Express Credit Card on the Amex Network, “giving fans in the U.S. enhanced opportunities to earn rewards and unlock access to unforgettable NFL experiences, from game tickets and merchandise to one-of-a-kind events.”
AmEx will support the NFL in expanding the league’s global reach, including offering Amex Presale Tickets for all league-owned International Games, alongside localized activations in select countries.
“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,” Elizabeth Rutledge, AmEx CMO, said via the firm.
“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.”
American Express said it already has been expanding its football presence in key markets through club deals. Team alliances include the Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, New York Jets and Miami Dolphins home games,
“American Express has a proven track record of elevating major sports moments,” said Anderson:. “And together we’ll provide our fans and their card members with more ways than ever to engage with the sport they love.”
Visa said it has alliances with eight NFL teams and several NFL players.
It is global partner of FIFA and the IOC, including top-tier rights with the 2026 Men’s World Cup in North America,, the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil and the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
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