Sports Sponsorship Agreement Template

A sports sponsorship agreement is a legally binding contract between a sponsor (typically a business) and a sports property (such as a team, athlete, event, or venue) that outlines the terms and conditions of their partnership. This comprehensive template ensures all crucial elements are properly documented and legally protected.

What This Template Is For

This template serves as a foundation for creating professional sponsorship agreements in the sports industry. It helps define the rights and obligations of both parties, including financial terms, brand usage permissions, exclusivity clauses, and performance requirements. The template is designed to prevent misunderstandings and protect both sponsors and properties throughout the partnership.

When To Use This Template

Use this template when:

Negotiating a new sports sponsorship deal
Renewing an existing sponsorship agreement
Creating a partnership with individual athletes
Establishing venue naming rights
Developing team sponsorship contracts
Setting up event sponsorship terms

How To Customize It

Follow these steps to customize your sports sponsorship agreement:

Insert sponsor and property details in the designated fields
Define the specific sponsorship category and exclusivity terms
Detail the rights and benefits being granted
Specify financial terms and payment schedules
Outline activation requirements and deliverables
Add any specific performance metrics or KPIs
Include termination conditions and renewal options
Review and adjust insurance and indemnification clauses

Common Use Cases

This template is frequently used for:

Professional sports team sponsorships
Individual athlete endorsement deals
Stadium and venue naming rights
Tournament and event sponsorships
League-wide partnerships
Youth sports program sponsorships

Best Practices

Clearly define all terms and obligations
Include specific performance metrics
Detail content usage rights and restrictions
Specify activation requirements
Include force majeure clauses
Define conflict resolution procedures
Set clear renewal terms

Template Variations

Different versions of this template are available for:

Title sponsorships
Official supplier agreements
Media rights partnerships
Venue naming rights
Equipment sponsorships

Success Stories

This template has been used successfully by regional sports teams securing six-figure sponsorships, national brands establishing athlete partnerships, and international sports events securing multi-year naming rights deals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in a sports sponsorship agreement?

A comprehensive agreement should include sponsor and property details, rights granted, financial terms, activation requirements, exclusivity clauses, term length, termination conditions, and intellectual property usage rights.

How long should a sports sponsorship agreement be?

Most sports sponsorship agreements run for 1-3 years, with options for renewal. The length should align with both parties' objectives and allow sufficient time to achieve ROI.

Do I need a lawyer to review my sponsorship agreement?

While this template provides a solid foundation, it's recommended to have legal counsel review the final agreement, especially for high-value deals or complex arrangements.

How are payment terms typically structured?

Payment terms often include an upfront payment followed by scheduled installments. The structure should align with the delivery of sponsorship benefits and major events or milestones.

What happens if either party breaches the agreement?

The agreement includes specific remedies for breach of contract, including cure periods, termination rights, and potential financial penalties or compensation.