24 August 2023: – Plan ₿ an initiative founded by Tether and the City of Lugano, to accelerate the use of and leverage bitcoin technology as the foundation to transform the city’s financial infrastructure, announced today its official sponsorship of FC Lugano, a historic Swiss football club with a legacy spanning over a century. This collaboration marks an exciting step towards increasing cryptocurrency representation and fostering deeper ties with the Lugano community.
As a testament to Plan ₿’s commitment to fostering growth in the Lugano region, the sponsorship reinforces the company's dedication to supporting local initiatives and investing in the community that has embraced it. FC Lugano, founded in 1908, holds an illustrious history in Swiss football and has been a formidable presence in the Credit Suisse Super League since 2015.
"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," said 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."
FC Lugano has carved its name in Swiss football history with an impressive track record that includes three Swiss championships, four Swiss Cup victories, and multiple qualifications for UEFA tournaments. Legends and past players such as Otto Luttrop, Ottmar Hitzfeld, Mauro Galvao, Valon Behrami, and Marco Padalino have contributed to the club's legacy.
The collaboration between Plan ₿ and FC Lugano transcends traditional sponsorship and will in the near future enable all tickets and merchandise to also be purchased with Bitcoin, Tether USD₮, and LVGA as well as all food and beverages within the stadium. Tether and the City of Lugano aim to work together to promote the adoption of cryptocurrencies in the Lugano region, working closely with the local municipality to further these efforts. The activation will showcase the benefits of embracing digital assets, leading the way in advancing the use of cryptocurrencies within the local economy. The sponsorship will also prominently feature front-of-shirt branding during international competitions featuring Lugano’s Plan ₿, enhancing the global visibility and engagement of the initiative. Lugano’s Plan ₿ is a joint initiative between the City of Lugano and Tether to accelerate the use of and leverage bitcoin technology as the foundation to transform the city’s financial infrastructure. It was marked by a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the City of Lugano and Tether in March 2022.
"We are thrilled to welcome Lugano’s Plan ₿ as an official sponsor of FC Lugano," said Martin Blaser, CEO of F.C. Lugano SA, stated: "We are extremely pleased to announce today our partnership. 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. We are convinced that this intelligently conceived partnership will only be the beginning of a lasting collaboration. We would like to thank the promoters of 'Lugano's Plan ₿' for their trust and generous support."
Plan ₿ seeks to accelerate the use of and leverage Bitcoin technology as the foundation to transform the city's financial infrastructure. This initiative marks the first step towards Tether's goal of integrating cryptocurrencies into everyday life, showcasing the innovative spirit that defines both Tether and FC Lugano.
About Tether and USD₮
Tether is a pioneer in the field of stablecoin technology, driven by an aim to revolutionize the global financial landscape. With a mission to provide accessible, secure, and efficient financial, communication, and energy infrastructure. Tether enables greater financial inclusion, and communication resilience, fosters economic growth, and empowers individuals and businesses alike.
As the creator of the largest, most transparent, and liquid stablecoin in the industry, Tether is dedicated to building sustainable and resilient infrastructure for the benefit of underserved communities. By leveraging cutting-edge blockchain and peer-to-peer technology, it is committed to bridging the gap between traditional financial systems and the potential of decentralized finance.
About Plan ₿
Lugano’s Plan ₿ is a joint initiative between the City of Lugano and Tether to accelerate the use of and leverage bitcoin technology as the foundation to transform the city’s financial infrastructure.
The plan will scale blockchain and Bitcoin throughout the city to positively impact all facets of daily life for the residents of Lugano. From small transactions with local merchants to larger efforts – such as paying annual taxes – blockchain will serve as the foundation for the city’s financial exchanges.
About Lugano FC
FC Lugano was founded in 1908 and is the only Swiss top-tier club located in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. FC Lugano won the Swiss Championship in 1938, 1941, and 1949 and the Swiss Cup in 1931, 1968, 1993, and 2022. In 2015, the club rejoined the Swiss Super League and qualified twice, in 2017 and 2019, for the UEFA Europa League group stage after two third place finishes in the domestic Championship.
