Bayern Munich confirm new investor in major ownership shake-up

Bayern Munich have confirmed that the Viessmann Generations Group will become the club's fourth external shareholder in a behind-the-scenes shakeup. 

Der Rekordmeister have announced that the investment group, headed by Max Viessmann, will acquire a stake of just under 6.7 per cent in FC Bayern München AG, while the parent association FC Bayern München e.V's stake is reduced from 75 to 70 per cent. 

Existing external shareholders, Adidas, Audi and Allianz will also see their holdings diluted, with each company owning approximately 8.33 per cent up to this point.

According to BILD, the agreement will bring €250 million into Bayern's finances, making it the most lucrative investment deal in the club's history, with the initial 5 per cent stake being upped to the mentioned 6.7 per cent as adjustments are made.

With this in mind, the German tabloid reports that the money will initially bolster Bayern's cash reserves, rather than being immediately allocated to new signings.

Max Viessmann will also join the club's supervisory board, with the 37-year-old's arrival expanding the group from nine to ten. 

The German businessman, who already serves on the administrative advisory board, heads the Viessmann family's investment group. 

The family built its fortune through the heating and climate technology industry before selling Viessmann Climate Solutions to US company Carrier Global in 2023. 

Viessmann's involvement with Bayern is not entirely new, with the club maintaining a commercial partnership with Viessmann Climate Solutions since 2018, and the agreement was extended until 2029 earlier this year. 

Speaking about the agreement, Bayern president Herbert Hainer emphasised the financial benefits of bringing another long-term partner on board, 

“The Viessmann Generations Group stands for values such as tradition, ambition and innovation, just like FC Bayern," Hainer said. 

“We are delighted to have a long-standing partner at our side whom we have known for many years - and who further strengthens our group of shareholders with a family-owned international company that takes a long-term, generational view.”

Hainer also highlighted the additional financial flexibility the investment will provide.

“This step strengthens the ownership structure of FC Bayern München AG. In addition, a significantly improved equity base gives us greater room for manoeuvre at a time of constant change.”