NWSL adds Google to growing list of corporate partners

The National Women’s Soccer League announced today the addition of Google to the league’s growing list of national corporate sponsors.

Google joins the NWSL’s group of sponsors at a time when the league is becoming the first team sport in the U.S. to return to competition following the COVID-related suspension of play in March of 2020.

As a sponsor for the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup, Google will support the players in getting back on the pitch in a number of ways. Athletes will share their diverse experiences through exclusive content that will be captured at the tournament and then shared on NWSL’s and Google’s social channels. Fans will also be able to follow along with the tournament right on Google Search. When people search for “nwsl tournament” or “nwsl schedule,” they’ll find the latest updates in a single view, including scores and team standings .

“I’m thrilled to welcome Google back to the NWSL family and to partner with them to bring the transformative and inspiring stories of our league, players, and fans to people all over the world,” said NWSL Commissioner Lisa Baird. “Google is an industry leader, synonymous with technology and innovation and they’re going to bring both to our partnership as we look for new ways to connect with fans during the upcoming NWSL Challenge Cup.”

The NWSL will use Google Meet during the Challenge Cup to securely host virtual cheering sections in club’s home markets around the country, bringing the fans to the competition at a time when they can’t watch in person. Additionally, the Best XI Award for the tournament, honoring the best player at each position, will be presented by Google.

“Google aims to inspire and support women both on and off the field, which is why we are thrilled to once again partner with the NWSL and the 2020 Challenge Cup,” said Director of Global Marketing Partnerships Kate Johnson. “COVID-19 has impacted women’s sports and women’s owned businesses especially hard. You can’t become what you cannot see so we’re proud to help NWSL provide support and visibility in impactful ways.”

“As we evaluate potential partnerships, we look for industry leaders and organizations that share the values of our league,” said NWSL Vice President of Business Development Lindsay Barenz. “Google is obviously a leader in the technology industry and is committed to advancing the women’s game. We’re grateful for their support of the incredible athletes that compete in the NWSL and hope it’s the beginning of a long and important partnership.”

The NWSL Challenge Cup will bring eight NWSL clubs to Utah for a month of world-class competition. Play begins on June 27, 2020 at 12:30 p.m. ET on CBS when the two-time defending league champion North Carolina Courage take on the Portland Thorns. All matches will be streamed on CBS Sports All Access domestically and live matches on CBS can also be streamed on YouTube TV. Twitch will carry each match internationally. The Challenge Cup Final will be on CBS on July 26, 2020.