Red Bull is buying a stake in Leeds United, but the club’s name will not change

Leeds United have announced that Red Bull has bought a minority stake in the club and will take over as shirt sponsor from next season.

The club name, club logo and Elland Road name will not be affected by the deal, however, unlike those of Germany’s RB Leipzig, Austria’s Red Bull Salzburg and the MLS New York Red Bulls.

“The addition of Red Bull is a historic milestone that will further empower the club to reach its full competitive potential,” said Paraag Marathe, chairman of Leeds.

“I am delighted that Red Bull is joining us in building a bright future for Leeds and share our deep respect for this truly special club.”

Leeds United have confirmed that Red Bull have bought a minority stake in the club and will sponsor their shirt next season 🧃 pic.twitter.com/PEHCnGs2D5

— Classic Football Shirts (@classicshirts) May 30, 2024

The energy drink giant is also invested in Brazil’s FC Liefering and Red Bull Bragantino, as well as two Formula 1 teams, other motor sports, extreme sports and ice hockey.

Leeds was taken over last summer in a £170m deal by 49ers Enterprises – the investment arm of the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers

Hollywood stars Will Ferrell and Russell Crowe already own stakes in the club, while major-winning golfers Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas are among other big names holding shares.

“The ambition to bring Leeds United back to the Premier League and establish itself in the best football league in the world is a great fit for Red Bull,” said Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull’s CEO of Corporate Projects and Investments, who said the club was “certainly one of the biggest in England.

“We look forward to the partnership and are optimistic and energized about the future.”

Leeds were beaten by Southampton in Sunday’s play-off final, considered football’s most valuable game, and face a second season in the second tier.

A Leeds statement said: “The deal brings in new commercial income as well as additional capital investment for a minority stake which will further enable the club to compete on and off the pitch as the club seeks promotion this season future”.

Leeds United are proud to announce a new multi-year deal with Red Bull, making them the club’s shirt partner from next season.

— Leeds United (@LUFC) May 30, 2024