Borussia Dortmund sparks debate with Rheinmetall sponsorship deal
1:56 PM EDT, June 1, 2024
Rheinmetall, the largest ammunition manufacturer in Europe, has become a sponsor of Borussia Dortmund for the next three years. The club explained, "Security and defense are fundamental cornerstones of our democracy." Borussia will play in the Champions League final against Real Madrid on Saturday.
Borussia Dortmund will play in the Champions League final on June 1 in London against Real Madrid. The German team last reached the final in 2013, while the "Los Blancos" have won the cup fourteen times.
Ahead of the Champions League final, controversy emerged. Borussia Dortmund announced a marketing agreement with the German arms company before the event.
Rheinmetall and Borussia Dortmund
According to The Athletic, the Rheinmetall logo will not appear on the players' jerseys. However, it will be displayed on advertising boards during Borussia's matches and press conferences. The German club has never previously signed a contract with an arms manufacturer.
Security and defence are fundamental cornerstones of our democracy. Especially today, when we see every day how freedom must be defended in Europe. We should deal with this new (normal) - said Hans-Joachim Watzke, club president, as quoted by The Athletic.
The Rheinmetall company was founded in 1889 in Düsseldorf, about 45 miles southwest of Dortmund. It is the largest ammunition manufacturer in Europe and produces various armored combat vehicles and combat drones.
Fans have opposed the club's decision, with some demanding the contract be terminated.
