Audi Announced Share Purchase in FC Bayern Munchen

Audi announced that, despite the recession, it has bought a stake in FC Bayern Munchen, the German football team. This is meant to tighten the relationship between the two, as Audi has sponsored the team ever since 2002. The German automaker was able to acquire 9.09 percent of FC Bayern Munchen for 90 million Euros.

Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Management Board of AUDI AG, said: “Through our direct financial stake in FC Bayern München AG two successful premium brands are now even closer ‘on the ball.’ I look forward to many great moments with the club, but in addition to this financial engagement, plans are underway to strengthen the global presence of both brands including, among other things, the promotion of young talent in soccer schools to be organized around the world.”

“We are delighted about the extension of our commitment which, arguably, is unique in the world of soccer,” said Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Management Board for Marketing and Sales of AUDI AG. “Since 2002 we have been fostering a close partnership as the automotive partner of FC Bayern and now, as a premium automaker, we are taking a direct stake in one of the world’s best and superbly managed soccer clubs – from my perspective, this is a revolutionary, albeit logical, next step from which both parties will benefit.”

“FC Bayern and Audi have a lot in common. Both exclusively play in the Champions League. Also, a large number of Audi’s employees keep their fingers crossed for the record champion from Munich.” And: “With its roughly 5 000 members the FC Bayern fan club of the Audi workforce founded in 2003 is the largest one of the German record champion. Now, the cohesion and collaboration between us will be intensified even further. This will be a gain for all of us,” added Peter Mosch, Chairman of the Joint Works Council of AUDI AG.

Even tough Audi has a share of FC Bayern Munchen, the football club will remain the only owner of the famous Allianz Arena München Stadion. With this transaction Audi will remain the only car company to sponsor the team.