Overview
- In a written reply to FDP parliamentary leader Ralf Witzel, Finance Minister Marcus Optendrenk said Kürsat "Chico" Yildirim appeared without payment.
- The ministry cited Yildirim’s large digital reach and local connection to Dortmund as a way to reach audiences missed by traditional communications.
- Officials disclosed a gross cost of about €177,000 for the BVB stadium event, covering venue, technical equipment, security, program parts, logistics, and basic provision for roughly 6,000 attendees.
- The ministry said influencers reported independently about the event, with no content directives, no honoraria, and no contractual advertising partnership.
- Photos showed Yildirim with Minister-President Hendrik Wüst as 1,600 finance administration trainees were welcomed, prompting FDP criticism and suggestions to use alternative ambassadors such as local athletes.