Arsenal and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) have announced that their long-running partnership will end after in June 2026, closing an eight-year collaboration that saw Visit Rwanda become Arsenal’s first Official Sleeve Partner. In a joint statement, both sides confirmed that the decision was mutual and aligns with Visit Rwanda’s new strategy to diversify its global sports partnerships and move into fresh markets that support the next phase of Rwanda’s tourism and investment goals. According to RDB, the partnership exceeded expectations. It played a major role in promoting Rwanda’s conse

Arsenal and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) have announced that their long-running partnership will end after in June 2026, closing an eight-year collaboration that saw Visit Rwanda become Arsenal’s first Official Sleeve Partner. In a joint statement, both sides confirmed that the decision was mutual and aligns with Visit Rwanda’s new strategy to diversify its global sports partnerships and move into fresh markets that support the next phase of Rwanda’s tourism and investment goals. According to RDB, the partnership exceeded expectations. It played a major role in promoting Rwanda’s conservation efforts, boosting sustainable tourism, and inspiring millions of football fans worldwide to discover Rwanda. Visitor arrivals climbed to 1.3 million in 2024, while tourism revenues reached US $650 million, marking a 47% increase since the partnership began. Throughout the partnership, Arsenal stars and legends—including Alex Scott, Bacary Sagna, Mathieu Flamini, Jurrien Timber, Katie McCabe, Caitlin Foord and Laia Codina—visited Rwanda to explore its landscapes and culture. Their itineraries included mountain gorilla trekking, Big Five safaris in Akagera National Park, canopy walks in Nyungwe, and relaxing on Lake Kivu. A highlight was their participation in Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s world-famous annual gorilla naming ceremony. The collaboration also helped Rwanda position itself as a growing sports hub on the African continent. Grassroots football programmes supported by the partnership have strengthened skills among hundreds of young players and coaches. Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, praised the impact of the relationship. “We are proud of what this partnership has achieved over many years of collaboration. It broke new ground for tourism boards around the world, driving awareness and visitation for Rwandan tourism at a pace traditional campaigns could never match.” He added that while Visit Rwanda now aims to expand into new sports and markets, the country remains grateful for Arsenal’s “support, partnership, and shared belief in Rwanda’s story.” Afrika also highlighted Rwanda’s ongoing partnership with the LA Rams and SoFi Stadium under the Kroenke Sports & Entertainment Group, and affirmed RDB’s commitment to Arsenal for the remainder of the season: “We wish them all the very best in their continuing quest for even more sporting success in the months ahead.” Richard Garlick, Arsenal’s Chief Executive Officer, called the partnership a milestone for the club. “Our first ever sleeve partnership with Visit Rwanda has been a significant journey. Over many years, we’ve worked together to raise global awareness of Rwanda’s tourism and conservation efforts and built many new connections with our supporters across Africa.” Garlick also noted Visit Rwanda’s role in helping Arsenal invest in its long-term ambitions. “The commitment and support of Visit Rwanda throughout our partnership has played an important role in driving forward our ambitions – helping us invest in our long-term vision to win major trophies, in a financially sustainable way.”

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