As payments partner to NFL, Amex will help it grow its global footprint, according to the CMOs of both brands

American Express is now the official payments partner of the NFL.

Tim Ellis, the chief marketing officer at the National Football League, joined Elizabeth Rutledge, chief marketing officer at American Express, to talk about why their new collaboration benefits both brands. The pair was interviewed at the 2026 Cannes Lions Festival.

"Any time we look at a potential partnership, we always think, of course, of the fan first — is this going to be a meaningful addition to their enjoyment of the game?" said Ellis. "There's a lot of value that's going to come from this at both times. A fan who's also a member, the special experiences and things they will get as a part of this agreement, it's best in class."

Rutledge said that 70% of Amex's US members are NFL fans. The alignment will help the NFL extend its international fan base, she said. "We have a global footprint, and we're so excited in partnership with Tim and the team to enable that expansion that I know the NFL is focused on, as are we."