FC Bayern could lose one of its prominent shareholders. According to a report by CORRECTIV, the Volkswagen Group is considering selling Audi’s stake in the German record champion as part of its cost-cutting program worth billions.
FC Bayern could see a change in its ownership structure in the coming months. As CORRECTIV reports, citing sources within the group, Audi’s stake in the German record champion is under review.
According to the report, the Volkswagen Group is considering divesting itself of several sports investments as part of a comprehensive cost-cutting program. In addition to VfB Stuttgart, FC Bayern would also be affected.
Audi holds an 8.3 percent stake in FC Bayern
Audi has been a shareholder of FC Bayern since 2009. At that time, the VW subsidiary acquired an 8.3 percent stake in FC Bayern München AG for approximately 90 million euros.
In addition to Audi, adidas and Allianz each hold an 8.3 percent stake. Together, they have formed the circle of strategic partners for the German record champion for years.
According to information from CORRECTIV, however, no final decision has yet been made regarding a sale.
Advertising impact is being reviewed
According to the report, Volkswagen first wants to assess what impact a potential withdrawal would have on the advertising impact of its respective commitments.
Audi has been one of FC Bayern’s most important sponsors for years and is closely tied to the club, among other things, as its mobility partner. Regardless of any potential divestment, this partnership could in principle continue.
These considerations stem from the Volkswagen Group’s cost-cutting program, which is worth billions. According to CORRECTIV, costs are to be significantly reduced in the coming years. This includes, among other things, cuts in investments, extensive job cuts, and a review of numerous sponsorship and investment models.
As things stand, the company’s commitments to VfL Wolfsburg and FC Ingolstadt 04 are not expected to be affected. Due to their regional significance, these are considered particularly important within the group.
Volkswagen itself declined to comment on the reports when asked by CORRECTIV.
There is currently no urgent need for action regarding FC Bayern. Whether Audi will actually sell its stake is to be decided as part of the ongoing reviews.