Red Bull becomes Leeds’ shirt sponsor after buying minority stake in club

Red Bull has bought a minority stake in Leeds and will become their principal shirt sponsor next season.

The global soft drink company has added the Championship outfit to its large portfolio of football clubs with the investment which sees it join existing owners 49ers Enterprises.

While Red Bull’s logo will be on the front of the men’s and women’s first-team kits, the club’s name or Elland Road stadium will not change.

“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,” United chairman Paraag Marathe said.

“As chairman, our consortium of investment partners will be invaluable to me as we approach this important moment for the club, now and into the future.

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

Leeds become the sixth football club that Red Bull is involved with around the world, joining RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, New York Red Bulls, RB Bragantino and RB Brazil.

1. RB Leipzig

2. Red Bull Salzburg

3. New York Red Bulls

4. RB Bragantino

5. RB Brazil

6. Leeds

Red Bull chief executive of corporate projects and investments Oliver Mintzlaff said: “We are delighted to be an important element and partner of Leeds United.

“A club that is certainly one of the biggest in England and has a rich and successful history.

“The ambition to bring Leeds United back to the Premier League and establish themselves in the best football league in the world fits very well with Red Bull.”

Leeds will spend a second season back in the Championship after they lost the play-off final to Southampton last Sunday.