Borussia Dortmund supporters are up in arms about the club’s recent sponsorship deal with German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall. The supporter association Südtribüne Dortmund, representing over 90 fan groups, has issued a statement expressing their strong opposition to the partnership. They feel that aligning the club’s image with an arms company goes against the core values of Borussia Dortmund.
Rheinmetall’s history as a major player in the production of artillery ammunition raises concerns among fans. With a projected revenue of $11.1 billion this year, the company has been thriving on the back of global conflicts. The announcement of the sponsorship deal came as a shock to many, with fan representatives claiming they were kept in the dark throughout the negotiations.
In response to the sponsorship deal, Dortmund fans are planning to protest at the upcoming home match against Eintracht Frankfurt. They are encouraged to bring signs and banners to voice their disapproval during the game. Additionally, a petition has been organized against the deal, with activists planning a demonstration outside the stadium. The use of a tank decorated in Dortmund’s colors and an activist impersonating Rheinmetall’s CEO showcases the intensity of the opposition.
Despite the backlash, Dortmund chairman Hans-Joachim Watzke has stood by the decision, citing the need to adapt to the current geopolitical climate. Watzke believes that in a world where freedom is under threat, the club must embrace this “new normality.” However, fans remain unconvinced and are determined to make their dissent heard.
The rift between Borussia Dortmund and their supporters over the Rheinmetall sponsorship deal highlights the complex relationship between sports clubs and corporate partnerships. As fans demand greater transparency and ethical considerations from their clubs, it raises questions about the responsibilities of football teams in representing their communities. The outcome of this controversy will not only impact Dortmund’s image but also set a precedent for future sponsorship deals in the world of football.