Chiefs head Mark Donovan denies Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship being a 'marketing strategy'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Kansas City Chiefs President Mark Donovan has firmly denied claims that the relationship between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce is merely a "marketing strategy."

Speaking on 'Squawk Box' on November 20, Donovan defended the authenticity of the couple’s connection, dismissing rumors that their romance is driven by publicity. 

Kansas City Chiefs president says Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship is genuine

“I’d love to say that it was a marketing strategy, but it is an authentic relationship, and we’re happy to have it,” Donovan explained, emphasizing the genuine nature of their relationship.

He added that Swift and Kelce’s bond has been "nothing but good" for the Chiefs organization, highlighting its positive impact on the team, People reported.

The conversation about the couple's relationship came after Donovan was asked about the NFL's growth following Swift and Kelce's pairing. Donovan noted that Swift has generated significant brand value for the Chiefs and the NFL, with reports estimating $331.5 million in brand value from her involvement, according to Apex Marketing Group.

“I think the best thing I can say about the whole relationship and the impact it’s had on us is, Taylor Swift is an authentic member of the Kansas City Chiefs kingdom,” Donovan said. He praised her as a genuine fan of the team, adding that this authenticity resonates with both the Chiefs' fanbase and the organization.

Mark Donovan reiterates his support for Swift and Kelce's relationship

Mark Donovan’s comments echo his previous statements about the couple. Back in September, he remarked, "We’ve adopted her in Chiefs Kingdom," recognizing the value Swift brings, particularly given the demographic appeal of her massive fanbase.

Swift, 34, has attended four of Kelce’s games this NFL season, adding to her 13 appearances from 2023, which included attending the Super Bowl. She even flew back to the US from Tokyo during her Eras Tour to make it to the big game. Since then, the Chiefs have remained undefeated with her at the games, although they faced their first loss of the season against the Buffalo Bills on November 17.

Donovan has always been a strong advocate for their relationship. In October 2023, he told PEOPLE that Kelce, 35, is a "smart team player" who is capable of handling the spotlight that comes with his romance with Swift. "He can handle it and has been very professional," Donovan remarked at the time.