Chapter 913: 912 standing out

Mercedes-Benz has demonstrated its boldness.

In fact, as Li Wei had speculated, “running backs and cars” share a subtle connection, and many automobile brands had set their sights on Li Wei.

Among them were top competitors in the industry–

BMW. Audi. Hyundai. Kia. Toyota. Chevrolet. Ford.

And so on and so forth.

Furthermore, after the Super Bowl ended, Jeep and Land Rover also reached out to Donald.

The competition is far fiercer than imagined.

Clearly, these car brands are beginning to recognize the direct connection between football and engines, speed, and power, with running backs being prime examples; previously, they had completely overlooked running backs due to the League’s disregard for them, but now, the tides have quietly shifted.

Li Wei is a unique presence. Putting everything else aside, just look at how much Nike has profited from selling jerseys, sneakers, and hats over the past two seasons–that alone is enough to make people envious.

Thus, openly and covertly, the eyes of all these big corporations are firmly fixed on Li Wei.

The choice lies entirely in Li Wei’s hands.

Donald engaged in detailed and in-depth conversations with each company, discussing brand image, positioning, collaboration formats, and contract terms. It wasn’t simply about “the highest bidder wins”; Donald hoped that Li Wei’s brand image could complement each endorsement product and ultimately achieve a win-win outcome.

Truthfully speaking, the contract from Mercedes-Benz wasn’t the highest-priced, nor was their approach the most aggressive, but their sincerity moved Donald. Their entire vision, positioning, and image presented a comprehensive blueprint, and their contract terms reflected substantial value.

Donald believes that the partnership with Mercedes-Benz could become a crucial step in enhancing Li Wei’s brand value further.

Ultimately, Mercedes-Benz emerged victorious in the stiff competition, with their ambition now aligned closely with Donald’s. This collaboration is about to unfold.

In the grand scheme of things, Donald remains unwavering in his approach, selecting valuable partnership opportunities from an endless stream of sponsorship and endorsement offers.

Such treatment is something that neither David Beckham nor Tom Brady had ever experienced in their time.

That was a distant era when neither agents nor brands had a clear concept of how to leverage professional athletes to build brand images and boost market value; likewise, there was no solid strategy for expanding the commercial potential of sports like football on a broader scale.

Everything was trial and error.

But now, Donald finally has the chance to make history and pioneer a new era.

Godiva Chocolates, for instance, is inviting a professional athlete to serve as their spokesperson for the very first time–and they’re starting with football, an unfamiliar domain.

A $10 million-per-year contract for two years. Clearly, they are earnest about testing the waters. Despite the short duration, their approach is undeniably on point.

Barilla, the century-old Italian pasta brand–and currently the largest and highest-selling brand worldwide–has also set their sights on Li Wei.

After the American League championship game, they contacted Edgar and entered negotiations. Ultimately, they offered Li Wei an $8 million-per-year contract spanning three years.

Like Barkley, food brands have also targeted Li Wei, given that football players are notoriously big eaters. However, unlike Barkley, this isn’t fast food or disposable goods. On the contrary, Barilla’s refined image as an established brand sets it apart entirely.

Of course, that still isn’t the whole story.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, renowned for luxury hotels and resorts, has traditionally collaborated globally with sports like golf and tennis. Now, they’re making their first foray into the football market by inviting Li Wei to become their promotional ambassador–a bold move.

A $5 million-per-year contract for three years.

This reflects a cautious approach from the Ritz-Carlton. Yet despite their caution, they’ve entered negotiations and displayed a proactive attitude.

This is what Donald finds most gratifying. To establish Li Wei’s brand image, collaboration with brands is indispensable; coordinated efforts are necessary to accomplish this goal and ultimately achieve mutual success.

JPMorgan Chase Private Bank is already globally renowned and doesn’t need to increase its visibility–but it still seeks to enhance its professional image. This time, they’ve set their sights on Li Wei, offering a $2.5 million-per-year contract for three years.

“…Honestly, I’m not satisfied with the figures in the contract–the negotiations are still ongoing.”

Donald speaks candidly.

“Their offer is calculated: if you sign the deal, they’re willing to provide VIP services and waive commission fees. But basically, they want you to invest your assets with JPMorgan Chase.”

Donald purses his lips, not hiding his dissatisfaction–

Still, it’s not surprising. This is typical of dealings with Wall Street elites: a group of vultures.

Nevertheless, Donald continues to consider JPMorgan Chase. The main point lies in the potential for collaborating with such a top-tier private bank to upgrade Li Wei’s brand image to an elite level, severing ties completely with blue-collar, muscle-driven stereotypes, disposable goods, and the like.

This is crucial, especially when Li Wei negotiates his contract extension with the Kansas City Chiefs in the future; it could play a pivotal role.

Ultimately, it boils down to a game of tug-of-war.

After venting frustrations, Donald lifts his gaze toward Li Wei. “But I have an idea now.”

Li Wei looks over, signaling he’s listening intently.

Donald says, “We could ask JPMorgan Chase to commit to making annual contributions to your charitable foundation–let’s say $1 million as a starting figure–on top of the contract fee itself. Whether it’s the Li Wei Foundation or the Annie Gallas Fund, they must contribute $1 million yearly.”

“This amount wouldn’t be paid directly to you; instead, it would help JPMorgan Chase enhance their charitable image while simultaneously strengthening the influence of your foundation. Beyond the contract value, this adds extra points to both parties’ reputations. I doubt they would say no.”

Li Wei tilts his head. “Wow, I never realized things could unfold this way. So, I wouldn’t even need to host a charity gala or auction off ‘Li Wei’s Date Vouchers’ to easily raise $1 million?”

“I think it’s a great idea.”

Donald shrugs nonchalantly. “If Wall Street wants to, they have endless ways to simplify or complicate matters. For them, money is just a numbers game.”

“But.”

“To be honest, I was genuinely surprised when JPMorgan Chase reached out. They don’t need spokespersons, and even if they did, a football player wouldn’t be their choice.”

Over the past season, Li Wei has dominated the field, while Donald has worked tirelessly off the field to carefully cultivate opportunities. Now, it’s finally harvest season.

“However, this still isn’t the most unexpected thing.”

Li Wei raises an eyebrow slightly. “There’s something even more surprising?”