Fortaleza Targets New Betting Sponsor After Cassino Exit
Fortaleza Esporte Clube has moved swiftly to reset its commercial strategy following the conclusion of its sponsorship agreement with Cassino. With the deal now expired, the club has opened discussions with betting operators and is actively reviewing proposals for a new principal shirt sponsor ahead of the 2026 season. Local outlet O POVO reports that three betting companies have already submitted formal offers.
Although Fortaleza recently dropped into Série B, club executives remain confident in the team’s commercial appeal. Recent competitive performances and sustained national exposure have helped preserve the strength of the Tricolor brand, positioning it as an attractive proposition within Brazil’s football and sports betting sectors.
Deal Structure and Commercial Priorities
Fortaleza’s board has outlined clear parameters for the next sponsorship agreement. The preferred structure is a two-year contract with guaranteed payments totalling approximately R$32 million, equating to around R$16 million per season or close to R$1.3 million per month.
In addition to fixed revenue, the club is seeking to incorporate performance-related incentives. A key variable under discussion is a bonus linked to a potential promotion back to Série A at the conclusion of the 2026 campaign, which could significantly increase the overall value of the agreement.
Club leadership has stressed that relegation has not materially weakened Fortaleza’s negotiating position. Executives point to the club’s sustained sporting relevance in recent seasons and argue that its market profile compares favourably with many competitors in the second tier. As a result, talks are centred on long-term commercial value rather than accepting reduced terms due to short-term sporting outcomes.
Closing the Cassino Chapter
Cassino served as Fortaleza’s main sponsor throughout the 2025 season but opted to activate a contractual exit clause following the club’s relegation. The partnership represented the most lucrative sponsorship in Fortaleza’s history, with a total value of R$60 million across two years.
Under that agreement, the club was guaranteed R$27 million per season, with an additional R$3 million tied to performance objectives. While the deal delivered record sponsorship income, its early termination prompted Fortaleza to reassess its commercial framework heading into 2026.
Focus on Stability Going Forward
As preparations continue for another Série B campaign, Fortaleza is expected to finalise a new main sponsorship in the near term. Club management views securing a replacement partner as essential to maintaining financial stability during a transitional period.
The sponsorship model being pursued reflects a balanced approach: dependable base income paired with upside linked to on-field success. As negotiations progress, Fortaleza is seeking a partner aligned with its long-term vision, aiming not only to replace the outgoing sponsor but also to reinforce confidence in the club’s future trajectory.
