Doha, Qatar: Qatar Airways, the national carrier of the State of Qatar, proudly announces its collaboration with the esteemed Italian football team FC Internazionale Milano (Inter) as the new Official Global Airline Partner. This momentous partnership, unveiled at the Dubai Airshow 2023, witnessed the Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Engr. Badr Al Meer, joining forces with Inter's executive team to solidify their association.
The multi-year agreement encompasses a comprehensive partnership involving branding, hospitality, and marketing rights, along with tailored travel solutions exclusively designed for Inter fans. This strategic collaboration aims to enhance Qatar Airways' presence across Italy and Europe, reinforcing its commitment to these key regions.
Additionally, the extended group-wide rights secured by Qatar Airways with Inter cover various aspects:
- Hamad International Airport as the 'Official Airport'
- Qatar Duty Free as the 'Official Duty-Free'
- Qatar Airways Privilege Club as the 'Official Frequent Flyer Programme'
- Qatar Airways Holidays as the 'Official Fan Travel Partner' in Qatar.
In celebration of this landmark partnership, Engr. Badr Al Meer hosted members of the Inter executive team on a tour of the Qatar Airways aircraft displayed at the Dubai Airshow. Marco Materazzi, Inter Legend, FIFA World Cup champion, and UEFA Champions League winner, made a surprise appearance, adding prestige to this anticipated sports collaboration with Qatar Airways Group.
The Inter delegation had the opportunity to explore the Business Class suite on the Boeing 787-9, the award-winning Qsuite on the Airbus A350-1000, and the state-of-the-art Qatar Executive private jet, the Gulfstream G650ER. In commemoration of Qatar Airways' seven-time title as "World's Best Airline," the delegation presented the airline with Inter jerseys printed with the number "7."
Engr. Badr Al Meer, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, expressed, "Qatar Airways’ relationship with Milan goes back to 2002 when we announced Milan as our first service city in Italy from Doha. Partnering with the football sensation, Inter, brings our relationship full circle with this vibrant city. Italy is one of Qatar Airways’ most valued markets and this partnership will help deepen our relationship with not only Milan but all markets across Europe and Asia where Inter has a huge following. We look forward to working with the club to chart a new era of success, both on and off the pitch."
Alessandro Antonello, CEO Corporate of FC Internazionale Milano, shared his pride, stating, "We’re so proud to welcome Qatar Airways to our family as a global partner. This agreement confirms the ever-growing appeal of our brand, which is now linked to one of the leading airlines in the world that shares our unwavering commitment to forge connections between places and people the world over. Thanks to this partnership, Qatar Airways will be granted access to our main touchpoints: our fanbase, which is made up of over 400 million supporters all over the globe, our illustrious history, our values and our unwavering connection with the city of Milan will support our new partner with its business development."
In celebration of the partnership, Qatar Airways Privilege Club will offer Inter fans discounts of up to 12 per cent on flight fares to witness the legendary Italian team compete at the San Siro Stadium.
Qatar Duty Free (QDF), renowned as the unrivaled beacon of sophistication, is set to elevate its luxury standards through this distinguished sponsorship. Having been recognized as the 2023 "Airport Retailer of the Year" by the Frontier Awards, QDF's partnership with Inter leverages its prestigious status, marking a transformative milestone for customers and VIP stakeholders.
This illustrious agreement with Inter will also extend rights to Qatar Tourism, fostering a well-rounded partnership with Qatar. Emphasizing the shared vision between both entities, this collaboration paves the way for strong relations between Italy and Qatar and aligns with the implementation of Qatar National Vision 2030.
Symbolizing excellence in aviation and football, this partnership enables Qatar Airways to connect with the team during exciting overseas tours and competitions as its key travel partner. The airline will also enhance its visibility in Milan with Qatar Airways' branded LED signage around Inter’s San Siro Stadium.
Inter, with its rich history of success, boasting 19 Serie A, three UEFA Champions League, and eight Italian Cup wins, has etched its name in football history. The club's motto, "We are brothers and sisters of the world," encapsulates their passionate fan base – the ‘Nerazzurri’ faithful, aligning seamlessly with Qatar Airways' mission of uniting the world through the power of sport. The airline currently operates from two airports in Italy, with three daily flights from Milan Malpensa and 18 weekly flights from Rome Fiumicino. Furthermore, starting January 2024, flights to Rome will increase from one to three daily flights.
