Just a few weeks after winning the historic title, the Graz99ers are facing a difficult financial situation. Massive savings from public sponsors could hit the champions hard – especially away from the fighting team.
Holding Graz halves support
According to reports in the “Kronen Zeitung” and the “Kleine Zeitung”, Holding Graz is to reduce its support for the 99ers by around 50 percent. This would mean that the newly crowned champions would be one of the most affected sports clubs in the city.
Energie Steiermark is also currently significantly reducing numerous sponsorships. The background is comprehensive cost-cutting measures and a reassessment of all cooperations.
Social projects and the academy at risk
This would have far-reaching consequences for the 99ers. General Manager Bernd Vollmann speaks to the “Krone” of a “serious blow”. Social projects such as para-hockey or initiatives to promote girls in ice hockey would be particularly affected.
There is also a risk of cuts in the youth sector and in the academy if funding is actually reduced to this extent.
Criticism of public austerity policy
Several sports clubs in Graz are already talking openly about scenarios that threaten their existence. Smaller clubs in particular fear massive impacts on youth work and popular sports.
The savings are increasingly causing a lack of understanding in the Graz sports landscape. Club representatives point to the societal and social importance of sport – especially for children and youth work.
For the Graz99ers, the current situation could be the first big test after winning the championship – but this time not on the ice, but economically.
Image: VSV/STEFAN
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