"Repeated fan-fighting" drives main sponsor to the brink
The logo of a beverage manufacturer adorns the jersey of FC Hansa Rostock. However, the company wants nothing more to do with the third division football club and terminates the contract. The reason given is the misbehavior of the fans. But the club does not accept this.
The main sponsor, Splendid Drinks, has spoken out for the first time about the termination of its contract with FC Hansa Rostock and confirmed "repeated fan riots" as the reason for this step.
"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," a statement from the beverage company reads. "Therefore, we felt compelled to take consequences to protect the integrity and positive image of our company and the brand 28 Black."
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 also applied to the second and third leagues. According to the report, the company has already stopped its payments to the club and numerous advertising measures. The logo of the energy drink will remain on the jerseys.
Hansa Rostock defends against termination
FC Hansa confirmed after the publication of the report by the "Ostsee-Zeitung" that its main sponsor wants to end the cooperation prematurely. However, the Rostock-based club referred to an "ongoing legal clarification" of the case. The club also responded to the statement by the company and stated: "The termination declared by Splendid Drinks AG was repeatedly contradicted by us with all clarity. 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 misbehavior 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 division club stated in its explanation.
Splendid Drinks has explicitly cited "repeated fan riots" as the reason for terminating its sponsorship of FC Hansa Rostock. Despite this, FC Hansa Rostock vigorously disputes the termination, asserting that they cannot be held accountable for the actions of third parties.
