Singapore, September 18, 2024 – Mastercard has announced an exciting new four-year partnership with the Tokyo Marathon Foundation, positioning itself as the global marketing and official payment partner for the Tokyo Marathon from 2025 to 2028. The partnership will bring exclusive benefits and unique experiences to Mastercard cardholders worldwide, further extending the company’s extensive sports sponsorship portfolio.
The Tokyo Marathon, part of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors, draws thousands of participants from across the globe. As a Platinum Label event by World Athletics, it offers an unparalleled platform for Mastercard to connect runners, families, and supporters through a series of exclusive offers and experiences.
Bringing Exclusive Benefits to Mastercard Cardholders
Through this partnership, Mastercard aims to provide value-added experiences for runners and spectators alike. Cardholders can enjoy multi-lingual runner support, cashback on baggage storage fees, and a range of exclusive offers. Additionally, Mastercard plans to create memorable experiences under the theme ‘The Day We Unite’, celebrating the camaraderie and pride of the running community.
“Change the Future, Through the Joy of Running”
Tadaaki Hayano, Chairman and CEO of the Tokyo Marathon Foundation, expressed his excitement over the collaboration:
“We are thrilled to welcome Mastercard on board as our official payment partner and global marketing partner. Together, we will build on our three objectives of creating the world’s safest, most exciting, and friendliest event here in Tokyo, the world’s greatest city. Furthermore, through various initiatives of the Tokyo Marathon Foundation, we will continue to work diligently with the motto, ‘Change the future, through the joy of running.’”
Mastercard’s focus on enhancing customer experiences is aligned with the increasing global popularity of marathons. Julie Nestor, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Asia Pacific, Mastercard, shared her thoughts on the new partnership:
“With the global surge in marathon participation, we are excited to partner with Tokyo Marathon Foundation to magnify the benefits of running – its accessibility, simplicity, health, and social perks – to an even wider audience. Mastercard’s issuer and merchant partners worldwide will generate additional value and priceless opportunities for their cardholders and customers, driving business growth while strengthening community connections. We look forward to hitting the ground running together!”
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Priceless Possibilities: Mastercard’s Sponsorship Legacy
Mastercard’s partnership with the Tokyo Marathon further strengthens its sports and entertainment sponsorship portfolio. Through its Priceless platform, Mastercard connects customers to unique experiences, from pre-sale ticketing to hospitality event packages and meet-and-greet opportunities with renowned artists and athletes. The Tokyo Marathon partnership promises a continuation of Mastercard’s commitment to creating priceless moments for its customers.
About Mastercard
Mastercard (NYSE: MA) is a global technology leader in the payments industry. The company’s mission is to power an inclusive digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere, by making transactions safe, simple, and accessible. Operating across 210 countries and territories, Mastercard is dedicated to building a sustainable world with endless possibilities for all.
