European clubs have pursued structured relationships with MLS organizations, most notable with City Football Group at NYCFC and Austrian drinks company Red Bull with NY Red Bulls. European multi-club ownership groups view MLS clubs as both a potential commercial growth market and a player development ecosystem.
Although FC Cincinnati does not carry an equity stake, the deal is in line with FC Porto’s Strategic Plan, which places international expansion at the heart of its medium- and long-term competitiveness.
FC Porto describes the partnership as an institutional framework that includes scouting, player development and commercial cooperation. The club already maintains US touchpoints through its New Balance partnership and a significant Portuguese supporter base.
FC Cincinnati was selected for its governance model, infrastructure investments and competitive trajectory. From Porto’s perspective, working with a stable MLS club within a single-entity structure offers predictability and scalability, a code that ensures there are no concerns about promotion or relegation.
The agreement was signed at the FC Porto Museum in the presence of both presidents.
André Villas-Boas, President of FC Porto, said: “This represents a new way for FC Porto to position itself internationally, especially in the United States, where we also plan to open our first football school. This protocol goes beyond player development and also includes scouting and commercial strategies that can emerge from this relationship. It is a fundamental step in the USA, where the 2026 World Cup will take place, especially with an American franchise recognized as one of the most innovative and dynamic in the MLS.”
“Over the past decade, FC Cincinnati has achieved significant success. They are backed by strong investors and recognized for their infrastructure, player development and academies. From that perspective, this partnership is of strategic importance to us as we work 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 decade. Our club is young, but we have built world-class stadiums and training facilities, won our first trophy and are now recognized as one of 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 that now aligns MLS with the global soccer ecosystem. “In 2027, MLS will transition to the FIFA standard calendar, which runs from August through May. This will allow us to be more active in the global soccer 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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