What about the sports budget of TSV 1860 Munich? Main sponsor "Die Bayerische" defends itself against accusations.
- The 1860 main sponsor is said to be slowing down the club's personnel planning.
- "The Bavarian" should also want to use the Pongracic transfer participation as a loan.
- We asked “Die Bayerische” board member Martin Gräfer about the rumors.
Munich - Since Wednesday, rumors have been circulating around TSV 1860 that main sponsor “Die Bayerische” would guarantee the participation in the transfer fee for ex-lion talent Marin Pongracic (for ten million euros from RB Salzburg to VfL Wolfsburg) claim granted loan; even the accusation that the company was blocking personnel policy made the rounds publicly. We asked Martin Gräfer, the CEO of Perlacher Versicherung.
Martin Gräfer, as CEO of the Bavarian you are the face of the lion sponsorship. What do you say about the media accusation that you would slow down 1860 sports director Günther Gorenzel in his personnel planning for the coming season?
Martin Graefer : To be frank, the assertion is downright absurd. So far, I have not noticed that there could be reproaches on the part of our partner. That would also be strange. For some years now we have been actively supporting the lion's game operations. Since the descent to a considerable extent and again last year with a number of creative measures. Just think of the name sponsorship of the young lions. Incidentally, the game would not have continued without the loan granted in 2017.
The Bavarian is contractually entitled to the Pongracic transfer participation as loan security. It is said to be about a million euros that Gorenzel would rather use for player contracts.
Graefer : Companies can and can only grant loans if they also contain a countervalue or adequate collateral. We do not comment on speculation, we have agreed confidentiality.
What role could the Bavarian play in a capital increase?
Graefer : We are ready if both partners wish to participate in the capital increase as anchor shareholders - ideally together with a group of other regional companies. The Bavarian does not aim for a leading role, but sees itself only as a junior partner.
What is your impression of the cooperation between the partners?
Graefer : We are more at the edge of the field when it comes to such questions. But I have the impression that everyone involved wants a constructive solution for the good of 1860. And it becomes particularly clear that everyone involved is interested in promoting the sporting success of the lions.
Interview: Ludwig Krammer