FinTech News
Neobank Chime Announces Partnership with Major League Soccer
A popular neobank is becoming an official sponsor of Major League Soccer.
About the Chime-MLS Partnership:
This week, Chime revealed a new partnership with MLS. As part of the agreement, the app will become the Official Retail Banking, Credit Card, and Debit Card Partner of MLS in the United States. Furthermore, Chime will be integrated into the league’s events, with the two parties collaborating on “meaningful opportunities to engage supporters, both inside stadiums and beyond the matchday experience.” Another feature of the partnership is that Chime branding will be present on the MLS All-Star Game jerseys.
While this is the first time Chime has partnered with MLS, it’s not their first professional sports sponsorship. In 2020, Chime became a jersey patch sponsor for the National Basketball Association’s Dallas Mavericks. That deal was renewed in 2024, at which point a Chime Lane (a dedicated arena entrance for Chime members) was introduced.
More on Chime:
Chime is not only the “#1 Most Loved Banking App” (per a 2025 Qualtrics NPS study) but is also the largest FinTech neobank. However, since Chime is not a bank, the app partners with The Bancorp Bank and Stride Bank.
Recently, Chime has rolled out a number of new features and offerings. Among them, the platform has rolled out Instant Loans, a secured credit card with cashback rewards, and more. Plus, last year, the app introduced Chime+, which members can unlock by receiving a qualifying monthly direct deposit. With Chime+, members can earn an enhanced APY on savings.
In June 2025, Chime held its initial public offering and is now traded on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol $CHYM.
What They’re Saying:
In a press release announcing the partnership with MLS, Chime’s Chief Growth Officer Vineet Mehra said, “Soccer is at a defining moment in the U.S. with global attention converging here this year, making it the ideal time to partner with Major League Soccer. This partnership reflects how Chime is evolving its approach to sports by showing up where passion runs deep and building meaningful connections through the moments that matter most, from the pitch to communities and beyond matchday.”
Mehra added, “As a company serving millions of Americans, we are investing in a sport that brings communities together and resonates with the people we serve.”
Meanwhile, MLS EVP and Chief Revenue Officer Carter Ladd stated, “MLS continues to evolve alongside how fans experience and connect with the game. Partnering with Chime allows us to work with a brand that shares our focus on accessibility and innovation, helping us create immersive experiences and community initiatives that meet our fans where they engage with the sport.”
My Thoughts:
I was a little disappointed to see that the details of how this partnership will impact fans remain pretty vague at this point. Personally, I was expecting MLS team logo debit card options or something of that nature. Sure, these additions could come in time, but all we know so far is that there will be signage in stadiums. Yay.
Sarcasm aside, I suspect this will end up being a fruitful partnership for both sides as Chime and Major League Soccer gain popularity in the United States.
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