Borussia Dortmund Members Vote to End Rheinmetall Sponsorship

Club leadership defends controversial deal with Germany’s largest arms manufacturer despite strong opposition from fans and members.

Borussia Dortmund's member assembly voted 556 to 247 in favor of ending the club's sponsorship deal with Rheinmetall, a major arms manufacturer.
The three-year partnership, announced in May, has faced widespread criticism from fans, peace organizations, and human rights groups for associating the club with the arms industry.
Club CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke defended the deal, citing extensive deliberation and economic considerations, while acknowledging it was a difficult decision that caused him 'sleepless nights.'
Protests against the sponsorship included mock tanks and calls for the club to uphold its values, with critics arguing the deal normalizes and profits from war-related industries.
The member vote is not legally binding for club management, leaving the future of the partnership uncertain despite significant opposition.