Borussia Dortmund are considering ending their partnership with defence manufacturer Rheinmetall when the current sponsorship agreement expires in the summer of 2027.
The German club’s contract with the company may not be renewed, according to Sport Bild, as reported by derbyderbyderby.it.
If Borussia Dortmund decide against extending the deal, it would bring an end to a partnership that has been controversial since it was announced. The agreement has also created a divide between the club’s leadership and a significant section of its supporters.
Rheinmetall produces military equipment and weapons, and its support for Ukraine has been another source of opposition among fans. At the time the sponsorship was agreed, 65% of Borussia Dortmund supporters questioned in a poll said they were against it.
Those supporters did not want to associate themselves with a weapons manufacturer, particularly one that actively supports Ukraine. The source article says that position has become increasingly widespread in German society in recent years.
A decision not to renew the agreement would therefore end a sponsorship that has remained contentious throughout its term. For now, the existing partnership is set to continue until the summer of 2027.