Portugal’s FC Porto build bridge into US market with FC Cincinnati

January 30 – Former European Champions FC Porto have entered a strategic partnership with Major League Soccer’s, FC Cincinnati, formalising a long-term collaboration.

European clubs have pursued structured relationships with MLS organisations, the most notable with City Football Group at NYCFC and Austrian drinks business Red Bull with NY Red Bulls. European multi-club ownership groups are seeing MLS clubs as both a potential commercial growth market and a player development ecosystem.

While the FC Cincinnati does not involve an equity stake, the deal aligns with FC Porto’s Strategic Plan, which places international expansion at the centre of its medium- and long-term competitiveness.

FC Porto describes the partnership as an institutional framework covering scouting, player development and commercial collaboration. The club already maintains U.S. touchpoints through its New Balance partnership and a sizable Portuguese supporter base.

FC Cincinnati was selected for its governance model, infrastructure investment and competitive trajectory. From Porto’s perspective, working with a stable MLS club inside a single-entity structure offers predictability and scalability, code for no promotion or relegation concerns.

The agreement was signed at the FC Porto Museum with both presidents present.

André Villas-Boas, President of FC Porto, said: “This represents a new way for FC Porto to position itself internationally, particularly in the United States, where we are also planning to open our first football school. This protocol goes beyond player development and also includes scouting and commercial strategies that may emerge from this relationship. It is a fundamental step in the US, which will host the 2026 World Cup, especially with an American franchise recognised as one of the most innovative and dynamic in MLS.”

“In the last 10 years, FC Cincinnati has achieved significant success. They are supported by strong investors and are recognised for their infrastructure, player development and academies. From that perspective, this partnership is strategic for us, as we are working with a dynamic and relatively young club that has already achieved market recognition.”

Jeff Berding, president of FC Cincinnati, commented: “This partnership will be a key pillar of our strategy for the next 10 years. Our club is young, but we have built world-class stadium and training facilities, won our first trophy and are now recognised among the best clubs in MLS. Over the next decade, we want to become a globally respected club, and to do that, we must learn from the best.”

Berding also highlighted the upcoming MLS calendar change which now brings MLS in line with the global football ecosystem. “In 2027, MLS will move to the FIFA standard calendar, running from August to May. This will allow us to be more active in the global football market. Some of our best players may move to FC Porto, while younger players may see FC Cincinnati as an important step in their development.”

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