"Repeated fan fight" beats out the main sponsor
The logo of a beverage manufacturer adorns the jersey of FC Hansa Rostock. However, the company has decided to no longer associate with the third-tier football club and has terminated the contract. The reason cited is the unruly behavior of the fans. The club, however, is not accepting this.
For the first time, the main sponsor, Splendid Drinks, has commented on the termination of their contract with FC Hansa Rostock, confirming that "repeated fan riots" were the reason for this decision.
"Unfortunately, repeated incidents in the fan environment of the Hansa Rostock club have led to the partnership with the club having a negative impact on the perception of our company," said a statement from the beverage company. "Therefore, we felt compelled to take action to protect the integrity and positive image of our company and the 28 Black brand."
Splendid Drinks has been advertising its energy drink "28 Black" on the jerseys of FC Hansa since 2022. The "Ostsee-Zeitung" reported on the termination of the sponsorship contract, which was valid until 2025 and covered the second and third leagues. According to the report, the company has already stopped its payments to the club and various advertising measures. However, the logo of the energy drink will remain on the jerseys.
FC Hansa Rostock rejects termination
FC Hansa confirmed after the publication of the report by the "Ostsee-Zeitung" that its main sponsor wanted to end the cooperation prematurely. However, the Rostock club referred to an ongoing legal clarification of the case. The club also responded to the statement from the company, stating: "We have repeatedly and clearly rejected the termination declared by Splendid Drinks AG. It lacks any basis."
The club's argument is that it cannot be held responsible for the behavior of third parties. "Together with the DFB, the DFL, and the authorities, we are doing our best to prevent misconduct by individuals. However, it is also clear that this behavior cannot be attributed to FC Hansa Rostock and does not constitute a reason for the premature termination of the contract," the third-tier club stated in its explanation.
Despite the termination announcement from Splendid Drinks, FC Hansa Rostock maintains that they have not accepted the decision and contest the contract's premature termination due to the company's stance on fan misconduct not being justified. The club asserts that it is not responsible for third-party actions and continues to work collaboratively with relevant authorities to prevent such incidents. [Sponsorship, termination]
