Changan Automobile announces partnership with Portugal national team ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has announced a partnership with Changan Automobile, a Chinese state-owned automaker, bringing it on board as an Official Global Partner of the Portugal men’s national football team.

Through this partnership, Changan aims to expand through the Middle East and African regions and connect with audiences there through football. To that end, it will work with the Portuguese national team on various brand engagement initiatives and localised product planning.

The FPF released the following statement on the matter:

“This partnership with Changan Automobile reflects the growing international relevance of Portuguese football and the values that define our Federation: ambition, innovation, resilience, and excellence. We are proud to join forces with a global brand that shares our long-term vision and commitment to continuous development, both on and off the pitch.”

Mi Mengdong, Vice President of Changan Automobile, added:

“In football, staying ‘in the game’ means total commitment — to every tackle, every second of concentration, and every precise pass. For Changan, it means continuous investment, relentless innovation, and standing firmly with our users. The Portuguese team has spent a century defining resilience. Changan has spent 45 years proving the power of long-term termism. This is not sponsorship — it is true resonance.”

Xiao Feng, General Manager of Changan Automobile, Middle East and Africa Business Division, said:

“Football is one of the strongest passion points across the Middle East and Africa, and the Portugal National Team has built an incredibly strong following across the region. This partnership gives Changan an opportunity to connect with audiences through a globally recognized team while continuing to strengthen awareness of our intelligent mobility technologies and growing NEV lineup across MEA.”