New Orleans, LA – May 17, 2025
In a groundbreaking announcement that is sending shockwaves through the American soccer landscape, New Orleans Football Club (NOFC) has confirmed a historic multi-year endorsement deal with global energy drink powerhouse, ThunderBolt. Valued at a staggering $240 million over six years, the agreement is the most lucrative sponsorship deal in the history of American lower-division soccer, eclipsing deals from some top-tier Major League Soccer (MLS) franchises.
The deal, which includes naming rights, extensive branding opportunities, and co-branded product lines, signals a bold and ambitious new era for NOFC, a club that has steadily risen in prominence over the past five years. Founded in 2017 and currently competing in the USL Championship, NOFC has become known for its passionate fan base, progressive playing style, and deep-rooted commitment to community development. A Game-Changer for the Club and the League
“This partnership is a game-changer—not just for New Orleans FC, but for the future of American soccer,” said NOFC president and co-owner, Marcus Delacroix, at the press conference held at the club’s recently renovated Crescent Park Training Facility. “ThunderBolt’s global brand and our footballing vision align perfectly. Together, we’re building something that transcends sports—we’re creating a movement.”
The new deal, effective immediately, will see the club officially renamed “New Orleans ThunderBolt FC” for branding purposes starting the 2025-2026 season. ThunderBolt’s iconic silver-and-blue lightning bolt logo will adorn the front of the team’s jerseys, training kits, and merchandise, while the club’s home ground will be renamed ThunderBolt Arena, undergoing a $30 million upgrade co-funded by the energy drink brand.
In addition to stadium renovations, the partnership includes funding for a state-of-the-art youth academy in Jefferson Parish, aiming to discover and nurture local talent with the potential to play professionally or earn scholarships. ThunderBolt will also support NOFC’s community outreach programs, including free soccer clinics, health and nutrition initiatives in public schools, and scholarship funds for underprivileged youth.
ThunderBolt’s Foray Into Soccer thunderBolt, known for its aggressive branding in extreme sports and motorsports, is making its most significant investment in soccer to date. CEO Maya Estrada stated that the move is part of the company’s long-term strategy to reach a younger, more globally connected audience.
“Soccer is more than a game—it’s a lifestyle, a culture, and a community,” Estrada said. “New Orleans FC embodies all of those things with authenticity and heart. We’re thrilled to help them electrify the league and become a national powerhouse.”
The energy drink brand will also launch a limited-edition “ThunderBolt FC” flavor line, featuring collectible cans with player images and augmented reality experiences that unlock behind-the-scenes content. A new commercial campaign featuring NOFC players training in the swamps of Louisiana, battling lightning storms as metaphors for their opponents, is set to debut during the upcoming Super Bowl.
Players and Fans Reaction NOFC captain and fan favorite,Taysom Hill , called the announcement “a dream come true.”
“I’ve played in four countries, but I’ve never seen a club grow this fast with so much heart,” Taysom said. “To have ThunderBolt behind us gives us the push we need to aim for MLS promotion and maybe even international friendlies. The sky’s the limit.”Supporters, too, are embracing the change. “This is the best thing to happen to New Orleans football,” said Emma Robicheaux, founder of the supporters’ group Bayou Battalion. “We’re not just a small club anymore—we’re a lightning storm coming for the rest of the league.”
Looking Ahead With the first phase of the ThunderBolt Arena upgrades set to begin in July and pre-season training kicking off in early August, excitement is surging in the Crescent City. The club is also rumored to be in advanced talks to sign two high-profile international players, bolstered by the financial muscle of the new partnership.
As the ink dries on this record-breaking deal, one thing is clear: New Orleans FC is no longer just a team—it’s a symbol of ambition, energy, and electrifying potential.
Stay tuned. The storm is just beginning.
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