Rakuten to become title sponsor for Cirque du Soleil extravaganza Messi10
For fans of Messi’s art on the soccer field and followers of the legendary Cirque du Soleil, the launch of Messi10 is a match of incomparable talents. Today Rakuten announced that it is stepping up to become the presenting sponsor for this completely new show from the renowned Canadian world leader in live entertainment, with a global tour that will kick off in October 2019 in Barcelona.
In addition to Rakuten’s title partnership, Rakuten will also gain global exclusive distribution rights to the show’s documentary with Rakuten TV to premiere and distribute it in Europe. In addition, global messaging app Rakuten Viber will serve as the show’s official communication channel, allowing every fan the chance to get closer to the unique creative journey of Messi10 by Cirque du Soleil.
Mickey Mikitani, Rakuten founder and CEO commented “This is the story of a young boy overcoming all barriers to become the greatest footballer of all time, because he believed in himself. Cirque du Soleil delivers unforgettable experiences and provides the perfect stage for the show – this is something the world has never seen before. It is a pleasure to present Leo Messi’s story to the world using one of the most creative platforms in entertainment.”
Messi10 represents Rakuten’s latest global entertainment initiative in a diverse lineup that includes sponsorship of Shakira’s El Dorado World Tour and original films from Rakuten TV. Messi10 also perfectly complements Rakuten’s global sports initiatives, including partnerships with the world’s largest obstacle race and endurance brand, Spartan, the NBA, NBA Champions the Golden State Warriors, the Davis Cup, and, of course, FC Barcelona, who are coming off their second straight Primera Liga championship while wearing the Rakuten-emblazoned Blaugrana kit.
Rakuten TV documentary on Messi10
Rakuten will also gain global exclusive distribution rights to the show’s documentary that will provide insights to fans on what ingredients go into the magic of Messi10. The film will feature never-before-seen footage of the creative process behind the show, its music and its 46 performers. It will also offer an exclusive look inside the Cirque du Soleil HQ in Montreal, reflections of the core challenge of translating Messi’s attributes and more. The documentary will be premiered and distributed in Europe by Rakuten TV.
Messi10 tells a unique story
Inspired by Leo Messi’s life and extraordinary career, Messi10 tells the story of a young man with boundless ambition overcoming all obstacles to become the greatest number 10 in the world. Exploring all the elements of his success, the show creates a universe where greatness is found in bouncing back to your feet, no matter how many times you are brought down on your way to achieving the impossible.
“We are proud of this exciting new partnership with Rakuten. Together we will give Messi10 by Cirque du Soleil, an inspiring story of optimism, hard work and endurance, new places to expand through special content and features like only a global leader in internet and technology like Rakuten can bring,” said Matías Loizaga, PopArt Music Partner and Sponsorship Director.
The 90-minute show will debut in Barcelona on October 10, 2019, to be followed by a world tour. It will be a unique opportunity to enjoy the first show that artistically translates the talent of the living legend of football and also shows that work and dedication can make any dream possible.
