Borussia Dortmund Faces Internal Division Over Rheinmetall Sponsorship

The club's partnership with Germany's largest arms manufacturer has sparked protests, member votes, and management defense, highlighting a deep rift within the organization.

Borussia Dortmund's sponsorship deal with Rheinmetall, valued at €20 million over three years, has drawn sharp criticism from fans and members due to the company's role as a leading arms manufacturer.
At the club's recent member meeting, 65% of attendees voted to end the partnership, though this non-binding vote represents only 0.25% of the club's 218,000 members.
CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke defended the deal as a financial necessity but acknowledged the dissent as a clear signal, proposing a broader survey of all members for a more comprehensive perspective.
Protests outside the meetings included anti-militarism demonstrations, with critics arguing the sponsorship contradicts the club's core values and promotes militarization.
Despite the backlash, a majority of shareholders supported the management's decision, emphasizing the deal's financial benefits and rejecting calls to revoke the agreement.