On 24 August 2023, Plan ₿, an initiative co-founded by Tether and the City of Lugano with the aim of leveraging bitcoin technology to transform the city’s financial infrastructure, has announced its official sponsorship of FC Lugano. This historic Swiss football club, established in 1908, is the sole top-tier club in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland. With Swiss Championship wins in 1938, 1941, and 1949, and Swiss Cup victories in 1931, 1968, 1993, and 2022, FC Lugano has been a significant player in the Credit Suisse Super League since 2015 and has made its mark in Swiss football history.
This collaboration signifies a notable stride in enhancing cryptocurrency representation and deepening connections with the Lugano community. “Tether, as a part of Plan ₿, is excited to join hands with FC Lugano in a journey that combines the passion of football with the innovation of cryptocurrency,” remarked Paolo Ardoino, CTO of Tether. “This collaboration not only underscores our commitment to the vibrant Lugano community but also signifies our belief in the power of crypto to drive positive change locally and globally.”
Tether, the issuer of USDT, a pioneer in stablecoin technology, seeks to revolutionize the global financial landscape. As the creator of the industry’s most transparent and liquid stablecoin, Tether focuses on bridging the gap between traditional finance and the potential of decentralized finance. Their innovative spirit is evident in this partnership, which goes beyond conventional sponsorship.
In the foreseeable future, fans will have the option to purchase tickets, merchandise, food, and beverages within the stadium using Bitcoin, Tether USD ₮, and LVGA. This move aligns with Tether and the City of Lugano’s objective to promote cryptocurrency adoption in the region, collaborating closely with the local municipality to further these initiatives. The sponsorship will also feature front-of-shirt branding during international competitions, amplifying the global visibility of Lugano’s Plan ₿.
Martin Blaser, CEO of F.C. Lugano SA, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Lugano’s Plan ₿ as an official sponsor of FC Lugano. What began with an advertising presence at the 2022 Swiss Cup final in Bern will continue over the next two years in an attractive and innovative manner for both parties.”
Lugano’s Plan ₿, marked by a Memorandum of Understanding signed in March 2022, aims to integrate blockchain and Bitcoin throughout the city, impacting various facets of daily life for Lugano residents. This includes everything from small transactions with local merchants to larger endeavors like annual tax payments.
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