The Bermuda Tourism Authority and New York City Football Club, announced a partnership that will see the BTA become the official tourism partner for the Major League Soccer club.

It is the latest in a string of moves being made by BTA ‒ the island’s official destination marketing organisation ‒ to pair tourism and sport, following on the heels of recently announced USA Track and Field Bermuda Games and the return of popular annual events like the World Triathlon, Butterfield/PGA tournament, and Black Golfers Week.

Bermuda will also host popular sailing events such as SailGP, Clipper Round the World race and the Newport to Bermuda race.

Douglas Trueblood, BTA’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer said that the island is looking forward to welcoming fans to its shores.

“Bermuda is proud to be the official, and only destination partner, of the New York City Football Club,” Trueblood said.

“We look forward to cheering on the reigning Cup Champions this season, and welcoming fans to Bermuda this year.”

Andres Gonzalez, NYCFC Vice President of Partnerships pointed to the proximity of Bermuda and New York and says the club is looking forward to showcasing the island as an ideal tourist destination.

“Bermuda Tourism will be a great partner for NYCFC and our fans, with travel taking approximately the same amount of time it takes to watch NYCFC play a game. Bermuda is a beautiful destination, and we cannot wait to work together and show off all the island has to offer,” said Gonzales.

A release issued by NYCFC further stated: “approximately 90 minutes by flight from New York City, NYCFC fans can travel from the City to Bermuda in the same amount of time it takes to watch their Boys in Blue continue their campaign this season as reigning MLS Cup Champions. As part of BTA’s entrance to joining the NYCFC team, the two organisations will be hosting a sweepstakes later this year where one lucky fan will win a trip to Bermuda,” the media release further noted.

"The BTA is dedicated to driving Bermuda’s evolution by promoting the island globally as a world-class destination for leisure, group travel and tourism. BTA partners with the Bermuda government, industry stakeholders and the island’s community to create memorable experiences for visitors, growing tourism and employment for the island,“ the release further read.