Southampton’s return to the EPL comes with a new front of shirt sponsor in a deal with iGaming firm Rollbit. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

Curacao-based iGaming brand Rollbit has secured its first English Premier League partner in a front of shirt sponsorship deal with newly-promoted franchise Southampton FC.

Southampton took to X on Monday to announce its official partnership with Rollbit for the 2024-25 EPL season with a spoof video:

The crypto-based platform, which offers casino, sports betting, and futures trading services, also secured the rights to display its branding around the Saints’ St Mary’s stadium via LED ads and hospitality.

In an official news release, Southampton’s Chief Revenue Officer Greg Baker welcomed Rollbit “into the Saints family.” He said the tie-up heralds a “dynamic fusion of technology and sport, at an exciting time for the club.”

The Saints were demoted to the Championship in 2023 after a run of 11 years in the EPL. The south coast franchise, however, bounced back into English soccer’s showcase league at their first attempt after a 1-0 victory over Leeds United on May 26 in the Championship playoff final.

Rollbit’s Head of Partnerships Sam Norman said his firm was “delighted” to secure the new deal following Southampton’s “incredible win” over Leeds. Norman made reference to “an exciting next chapter” and stated Southampton’s EPL pedigree made it the perfect fit for Rollbit as the brand that styles itself as “crypto’s most innovative casino” seeks to expand its global reach.