US destination Annapolis forms partnership with Portsmouth FC

Annapolis, the capital of US state Maryland, has struck a partnership with Portsmouth FC in a bid to boost awareness of the destination among UK travellers.

The agreement between Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (VAAAC) and the Championship side will mean VAAAC branding will be featured throughout Fratton Park during the 2026/27 football season.

VAAAC said the move would introduce Annapolis and Anne Arundel County to thousands of [football] supporters.

Kristen Pironis, chief executive of the destination marketing and management organisation, said: “As we continue to grow our presence in the UK, Portsmouth is a natural partner, with strong ties to Annapolis through our shared naval history and waterfront identities.”

She added: “We look forward to strengthening that connection and welcoming more UK visitors to Annapolis and Anne Arundel County.”

Annapolis is home to the US Naval Academy, while Portsmouth hosts the Royal Navy’s principal naval base.

Portsmouth FC chief commercial officer Mark Judges said: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County as a partner of Portsmouth Football Club and to establish an international partnership within the United States.

“Annapolis is a fantastic destination with such strong parallels to Portsmouth, particularly through our shared maritime heritage, naval history and proud waterfront identities.

“We’re delighted to welcome Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County into the Portsmouth family and look forward to building a strong relationship together.

“This partnership presents a fantastic opportunity to connect Portsmouth and Annapolis, introducing our supporters and wider audiences to everything the destination has to offer. We’re really looking forward to seeing where the partnership can take us.”