Latest news with #SPORT
Yahoo
18 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Barcelona set to secure major sponsorship deal worth €40 million
FC Barcelona players returned to training this week, but activity behind the scenes at the club has never stopped. Club executives have been working intensely to secure new revenue streams to address the current financial challenges, with a clear objective: to return to La Liga's 1:1 rule and regain full freedom to operate in the transfer market. Sponsorship agreement in sight with Congo Now, SPORT reports that Barcelona are closing in on finalising a sponsorship agreement worth €40 million with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Over the past few months, several meetings have taken place with potential sponsors to evaluate the feasibility of different commercial agreements. Many of these discussions have been ruled out for various reasons. However, the deal with the Republic of the Congo has progressed well and is entering the final stages of negotiations. Another sponsorship deal on the horizon. (Photo by) The deal would see Barcelona include the slogan 'RDC, coeur de l'Afrique' (translates to DRC, the heart of Africa) on one of the club's kits. On 19 May, the Congolese Minister of Sports and Leisure, Didier Budimbu, visited Barcelona and held a meeting with senior club executives. Accompanied by his team, he also toured the Ciutat Esportiva facilities and personally presented the project, which was received with interest by the Barcelona board. The agreement is expected to bring approximately €40 million into the club's finances. According to the report, negotiations are in an advanced stage, and an official announcement could be made as early as next week, before the start of the pre-season tour. The revenue will be a big boost for the La Liga champions as they aim to return to the 1:1 Fair Play rule, which will allow them to operate with greater freedom in the market.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Real Madrid refuse to meet superstar's financial demands, ready to make ruthless decision
According to SPORT, it has come to light that the relationship between Real Madrid and Vinicius Jr. has reached a delicate point. Talks over the Brazilian's contract renewal have stalled, and the club is making it clear that they will not accept what they see as financial pressure from the player's camp. Advertisement Vinicius is pushing for a new deal that would make him the highest-paid player at Real Madrid, even surpassing Kylian Mbappe's income. This has complicated the negotiations, which have quietly been at a standstill despite reports suggesting otherwise. What is the problem? The main issue is the salary structure. For years, Florentino Perez has maintained a strict wage policy at the club. The highest salary has typically been capped at €15 million per season, though Real Madrid are now open to raising that figure to €20 million for Vinicius, knowing that players like Kylian Mbappe have shifted the market. Real Madrid are getting tired of Vinicius' demands. (Photo by) Advertisement However, the Brazilian forward believes this still falls short. Vinicius is asking for a renewal bonus and extra guarantees that would put his total earnings on par with, or even ahead of, Mbappe's. Vinicius feels he deserves similar treatment as the Frenchman, but the club disagrees. Real Madrid won't budge Real Madrid are standing firm. The club sees Vinicius's demands as an attempt to push them into breaking their salary structure, something they are not willing to do. The board knows that raising Vinicius's pay beyond the current limits could set off a chain reaction, with other top players asking for the same. Advertisement If the situation continues, Madrid are seriously considering placing Vinicius on the market. The idea of selling him for a massive fee this summer is gaining traction within the club, especially since he still has two years left on his contract. Waiting until next summer could lower his transfer value, as he would then be just a year away from leaving on a free.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Sport
- Forbes
FC Barcelona ‘Close To' Cancelling Camp Nou Return
FC Barcelona is close to cancelling its announced and planned return to the Spotify Camp Nou on ... More August 10 according to SPORT, which cited anonymous sources. FC Barcelona is close to cancelling its announced and planned return to the Spotify Camp Nou on August 10 according to SPORT, which cited anonymous sources. Barca's iconic ground has been undergoing a renovation since 2023, which is when the men's first team had to take its home games to Montjuic. Using the old Olympic stadium for two seasons, Barca announced around three weeks ago that it would be going home on August 10 to host its annual Joan Gamper Trophy match which marks the start of a new campaign after a preseason tour that is often held in the United States or Asia. 'This return represents a historic milestone for the Club and for Barça fans, since after more than two years of extensive renovation and temporarily playing away from home at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium, they will once again experience the excitement of football in the Barça temple, in the heart of Les Corts. However, it should be noted that the return will take place while the works on the new Spotify Camp Nou continue, and it will be necessary to coexist with performances in different areas of the venue,' the Catalans warned. Since then, however, there have been frequent reports that Barca might not be able to pull off the return because of not having the right licenses and permits from the Barcelona city council. On Wednesday, SPORT reports that Barca is 'close to suspending the celebration of the Joan Gamper trophy at the Spotify Camp Nou scheduled for August 10', as despite the construction works continuing to advance a lot in recent week, the 'reality' is that the club looks unlikely to receiving its first occupancy license which means it is now setting itself the challenge of getting Camp Nou ready for Hansi Flick's men's first La Liga home match on September 14 against Valencia. A final decision on the matter will be made on Friday, and 'everything indicates that the Gamper will not be played at the Camp Nou'. The Estadi Johany Cruyff has been touted as an alternative venue, and holds ten times less than what Camp Nou was tipped to for the Gamper. This is because Barca first considered opening its stadium for 60,000 spectators and then tried for 30,000-32,000 instead. As SPORT reports, though, 'everything indicates that it will not be possible' to host either capacity. Not returning to Camp Nou in August will be very embarrassing for FC Barcelona Not returning to Camp Nou in August will be very embarrassing for FC Barcelona on August 10, especially after making a grand announcement that this would be the case. If it doesn't come off, it beggars belief as to why President Joan Laporta decided to go out on a limb without the proper licenses and permissions in place.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Barcelona dealing with mounting tension over future of exit-linked star
The mood inside Barcelona is currently uneasy due to the situation surrounding Marc-Andre ter Stegen, reports SPORT. In the last few days, it must be remembered that the German goalkeeper has trained separately from the main group in all three sessions since the team returned to work. Advertisement While the club says Ter Stegen is dealing with some minor physical discomfort, there is no official medical report expected. That decision has raised eyebrows, with many wondering if there is more going on behind the scenes. The bigger picture Barcelona insist the goalkeeper is not seriously injured. However, it is hard to ignore the bigger picture. The club has \brought in Joan Garcia, who has changed the dynamics in the goalkeeping department. From the outside, it seems clear that Barcelona are starting to look beyond Ter Stegen, who has been the team's first-choice keeper for years. Despite the uncertainty, Ter Stegen is standing his ground. He has made it very clear that he does not intend to leave the club this summer. He still has three years left on his contract and plans to see it through. Advertisement Eyes on the Asia tour Marc-Andre ter Stegen does not want to leave. (Photo by) The coming days could be key in deciding how this situation unfolds. Barcelona will soon head off on their Asian tour. The club wants Ter Stegen to travel with the team, even if he doesn't fully take part in the matches. The coaching staff believes that his presence would send a message of unity and normality, even if he continues to train separately during the trip. At the moment, there is no set deadline for a decision. The management believes that if Ter Stegen wants to leave, he will need to say so directly. Advertisement What next? In that case, the club would consider giving him the letter of freedom. Selling him is not part of the plan, and the board prefers a quiet and respectful solution without drama. Meanwhile, inside the dressing room, players are remaining silent but supportive. When Ter Stegen crossed paths with some teammates after a recovery session, everything felt normal. The squad respects him as their captain and hopes the matter is resolved soon, to keep the group focused and united ahead of the new season.
USA Today
3 days ago
- Automotive
- USA Today
Setting the Standard: Lexus of Oakville Receives 2025 Consumer Choice Award
Lexus of Oakville, a destination dealership renowned for delivering the ultimate Lexus ownership experience, has been recognized with the 2025 Consumer Choice Award in the Automobile Dealers – Lexus category for the Greater Toronto Area. This award underscores the dealership's commitment to setting the standard in luxury vehicle sales and service, providing customers with refined care and a journey that lives up to the craftsmanship of the Lexus brand. Conveniently located in Oakville and proudly serving drivers across the GTA, Lexus of Oakville has built its reputation on more than just selling vehicles – it's about elevating every interaction to match the sophistication and innovation that Lexus drivers expect. From first inquiry to long-term maintenance, the dealership's team is dedicated to making every visit smooth, welcoming, and memorable. Delivering More Than Cars: Delivering the Lexus Experience At Lexus of Oakville, the mission is simple yet ambitious: to offer an unparalleled customer experience at every stage. Whether exploring the award-winning Lexus lineup, finalizing the perfect purchase, or returning for routine service, guests can count on personal attention and a standard of hospitality that's second to none. 'Anyone can sell a car, but very few can deliver a true Lexus experience,' said Mike Mahaffy, General Manager at Lexus of Oakville. 'Receiving the Consumer Choice Award means so much to our entire team because it reflects the trust our guests place in us. We're proud to keep setting the benchmark for what a luxury dealership should be – welcoming, transparent, and dedicated to every guest's satisfaction.' A Showroom That Embodies Luxury and Innovation Step inside Lexus of Oakville and it's clear why drivers feel at home. The dealership's bright, modern showroom reflects the Lexus design ethos: sophisticated, calming, and purposeful. Guests are welcomed by knowledgeable product specialists ready to answer questions, demonstrate features, and guide shoppers through every option available. From elegant self-charging hybrids to exhilarating F SPORT models, the dealership showcases the full Lexus range – each vehicle presented with care and expertise. Personalized Care, Every Time The Lexus of Oakville team believes the buying experience should feel effortless and respectful. Guests are encouraged to test drive, ask questions, and take the time they need to choose the right vehicle without any pressure. After purchase, the experience continues with factory-trained service technicians, concierge support, and amenities that make routine maintenance something to look forward to. Appointments are easy to book, service bays are equipped with the latest diagnostic technology, and every detail is designed to reflect the brand's dedication to excellence. Investing in Team and Community Part of what sets Lexus of Oakville apart is the dealership's ongoing investment in staff training, state-of-the-art facilities, and community involvement. Every team member, from the sales floor to the service centre, undergoes regular training to maintain the highest level of product knowledge and customer service. Outside the showroom, Lexus of Oakville supports local charities, community events, and initiatives that enrich the Oakville and broader GTA region. This commitment ensures the dealership is more than just a place to buy a luxury vehicle – it's a trusted neighbour and partner. Driving Into the Future As Lexus continues to lead the way in hybrid and electric vehicle technology, Lexus of Oakville is expanding its lineup and investing in advanced service tools and guest experiences to match. The dealership is excited to help new and returning guests navigate the future of sustainable luxury driving while maintaining the care and attention that have earned them this Consumer Choice Award. Setting the standard today – and raising it for tomorrow – Lexus of Oakville remains dedicated to delivering an experience worthy of the Lexus badge. Experience It for Yourself To explore the Lexus lineup, book a test drive, or learn more about service options, CLICK HERE or visit or stop by the Oakville showroom. About Consumer Choice Award: Consumer Choice Award has been recognizing and promoting business excellence in North America since 1987. Its rigorous selection process ensures that only the most outstanding service providers in each category earn this prestigious recognition. Visit to learn more. Contact Information: Sumi Saleh Communications Manager ssaleh@ SOURCE: Consumer Choice Award View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
