Red Bull acquires stake in Leeds United

Energy drinks business Red Bull has bought a minority stake in Leeds United Football Club, despite the club’s recent failure to win promotion to the Premier League.

It will become the team’s new shirt sponsor as part of the multi-year deal, as well as the side’s side’s “exclusive energy drink partner”.

While the company’s branding will be displayed at the Elland Road stadium, Leeds United has stressed its “name and logo will remain unchanged.”

Red Bull has attracted controversy in earlier deals with football clubs – including in Austria where FC Red Bull Salzburg changed its name, crest and stadium name after being acquired by the firm back in 2005.

Full details of the deal for Leeds United, including the exact size of Red Bull’s stake, have not been released.

This is the business’s first advance into English football.

But its sporting interests already include the Red Bull F1 Racing team and its sister team RBF1.

As well as ice hockey and extreme sports teams, the company has also invested in German football side RB Leipzig, US side New York Red Bulls, along with Red Bull Bragantino in Brazil.

Leeds United chairman, Paraag Marathe, said: “I am thrilled that Red Bull is joining us to build a bright future for Leeds United and shares our deep respect for this truly special club.

“Red Bull’s addition is a historic milestone that will further empower the club to reach its full competitive potential.”