Kingfisher Strong Power Soda Unites Kolkata Football Rivals for Historic Pre-Derby Event

In a historic convergence of Kolkata's fiercest football rivals, Kingfisher Strong Power Soda from United Breweries Limited—a subsidiary of the HEINEKEN Company—orchestrated an unprecedented gathering of Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC ahead of the highly anticipated 2025-26 Indian Super League Kolkata Derby.

The event served as a platform to celebrate the brand's partnerships with both clubs while acknowledging the sport's expanding footprint in India. Accompanying this initiative, UBL's Amstel Grande Packaged Drinking Water also secured a partnership with Mohun Bagan Super Giant, marking its inaugural entry into Indian football sponsorships.

The initiative represents a strategic effort to engage with two of Indian football's most devoted fan bases during one of the nation's most significant sporting fixtures. The gathering underscored the vitality of football culture in the country, the intensity of fan engagement, and the meaningful role corporate partnerships play in elevating the sport.

Vikram Bahl, Chief Marketing Officer of United Breweries Limited, reflected on the significance of the moment: "Football in West Bengal represents one of India's most profound cultural passions. The intensity, competitive spirit, and supporter dedication surrounding the Kolkata Derby stand unparalleled across the nation. Our objective through Kingfisher Strong Power Soda and Amstel Grande Packaged Drinking Water was to authentically and meaningfully integrate with this cultural fabric. Bringing both clubs together on a single platform before the Derby exemplified our commitment to honouring the essence that defines Kolkata football."

As Indian football strengthens its cultural resonance and fan engagement across the country, the involvement of Kingfisher Strong Power Soda and Amstel Grande Packaged Drinking Water this season demonstrates UBL's deepening investment in the sport and the communities that fuel its passion.