In a significant move to conclude 2025, Barclays has announced a landmark, multi-year partnership that will see Scotland's iconic national stadium, Hampden Park, renamed Barclays Hampden.
A Strategic Expansion in Sports and Entertainment
This new agreement follows Barclays' recent high-profile investments in UK venues, including becoming the founding partner of Co-op Live in Manchester and the principal partner of The O2 in London. The deal with the Scottish Football Association (Scottish FA) underscores the bank's strategic expansion into major sports and entertainment sponsorships.
Barclays has also confirmed it will become a partner of both the Men's and Women's Scottish Cup. Furthermore, it will serve as the official naming rights partner for the Barclays Next Gen Girls' Performance Programme, an initiative designed to provide clubs with tailored programmes to develop young female talent and promote equal access to football.
Investment in Scotland's Future
The partnership is framed as a major commitment to Scotland. Stephen Flaherty, Scotland Site Lead at Barclays, highlighted that with over 7,000 colleagues across its Scottish campuses, the country is central to the bank's long-term strategy. He stated the deal reflects Barclays' continued investment in the UK and Scotland, aiming to drive commercial growth and expand resources for local businesses.
Barclays' community involvement includes awarding more than 300 grants to Scottish grassroots football clubs over the past four years through its Community Sport Fund. The bank stated that Barclays Hampden will now play a pivotal role in supporting the next generation of Scottish football talent.
More Than Just Football
The stadium's role as a premier entertainment venue is also a key part of the partnership. During Summer 2026, Barclays Hampden is scheduled to host major music acts including Take That, Metallica, and Calvin Harris. To celebrate the new alliance, Barclays plans to open a dedicated hospitality suite later next year, offering clients an exclusive matchday and event experience.
Tom Corbett, Managing Director of Sponsorship at Barclays, expressed excitement about adding "the Scottish home of football" to their portfolio. Ian Maxwell, Chief Executive of the Scottish FA, welcomed Barclays' clear desire to support Scottish football at all levels, stating their investment will have an impact both within the stadium and across wider society.
