Chipotle partners with Ohio State, Florida, Georgia for free food for athletes.

Chipotle Mexican Grill has partnered with The Ohio State University, University of Florida, and University of Georgia to provide free meals to nearly 2,000 student athletes during the 2025-26 athletic seasons. The program allows athletes to benefit from NIL, and Chipotle has launched two new ads tapping into college football passion, featuring Ohio State and Florida athletes. The partnership aims to enhance the athletic experience for student athletes.

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) has announced a significant expansion of its college athlete support program for the 2025-26 school year. The initiative will provide nearly 2,000 student athletes at The Ohio State University, University of Florida, and University of Georgia with customized cards offering one free entrée per week for 15 weeks during their respective athletic seasons [1].

The program's expansion follows high engagement metrics, with 98% of Ohio State, 94% of Florida, and 80% of Georgia student athletes regularly consuming Chipotle. Additionally, the Chipotle Cultivate Foundation is providing educational support through a full-ride scholarship at Ohio State's College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences and over $100,000 in undergraduate research awards at the University of Florida [1].

To further enhance the experience, Chipotle has launched two new ads that tap into the passion of college football. One features The Ohio State University football players Caleb Downs, Sonny Styles, and Carnell Tate, while the second stars University of Florida quarterback DJ Lagway and former basketball guard Walter Clayton Jr. [2].

This partnership aims to enhance the athletic experience for student athletes while leveraging the power of Non-Institutionalized (NIL) benefits. The program not only provides free meals but also supports the educational goals of the athletes, reflecting Chipotle's commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.

References:
[1] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/CMG/chipotle-teams-up-with-elite-college-athletic-programs-to-fuel-f152bn49e7zj.html
[2] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chipotle-teams-up-with-elite-college-athletic-programs-to-fuel-student-athletes-with-real-food-302539611.html