FC Schalke 04 Signs MERKUR GROUP as Exclusive Partner in New Sponsorship Deal.

Roger Hampel

Photo Credit: FC Schalke 04

FC Schalke 04 has announced the signing of a new exclusive partnership with MERKUR GROUP, a long-established entertainment and gaming company headquartered in Espelkamp and Lübbecke. The two-year deal brings another name into the club’s sponsorship portfolio as it seeks to rebuild its commercial base amid ongoing restructuring on and off the pitch.

Strategic Collaboration with a Regional Powerhouse

The partnership marks a strategic alignment between two brands with strong roots in North Rhine-Westphalia. MERKUR GROUP, a family-owned business founded in 1957, operates globally in the leisure and entertainment sector. The company’s portfolio spans gaming machines, online gaming, cash management systems, and state-licensed casinos—including a growing presence in sports betting under the Merkur Bets brand.

Matthias Tillmann, CEO of Schalke 04, commented on the partnership:

“MERKUR GROUP has a long-standing tradition and a broad portfolio that includes sports betting. We are pleased to welcome a responsible partner from North Rhine-Westphalia to our sponsorship family.”

Visibility at the VELTINS-Arena and Beyond FC Schalke 04 MERKUR GROUP

Under the terms of the agreement, MERKUR GROUP will gain significant visibility at Schalke’s home venue, the VELTINS-Arena, through pitchside advertising (bandeaus), Cam Carpets, and other branding elements. The company also receives a comprehensive media budget and hospitality package, which includes VIP access and business networking opportunities during matchdays.

The sponsorship will play a role in enhancing fan engagement and corporate outreach, especially in regional markets where both Schalke 04 and MERKUR have strong recognition.

Manfred Stoffers, Deputy Spokesperson for the Board of Merkur.com AG, highlighted the brand fit:

“Schalke stands for honesty, loyalty and unshakable optimism—values that reflect our own. Whether it’s working hard or celebrating victories, both MERKUR and Schalke share a commitment to giving 1904 percent.”