Although it’s a story that will be a surprise to many, the San Francisco 49ers have announced a partnership with Championship club Leeds United, one of the UK’s most prestigious clubs. The new deal will see a close collaboration between senior management of both teams, which will include the discussion of many business strategies going forward, such as ticket structures, merchandising, sponsorship, technology and much more, along with the history of both squads playing a role in shaping matters behind the scenes in the growing sports industry as a whole. The announcement ties into the 49ers’ move into the Levi’s Stadium later this year.