By Roberto Lamprecht and Paul Gorgas
The financial situation of Hertha BSC is dramatic, the Berliners are trembling for the license!
The repayment of a 40 million euro bond due in autumn is to be postponed by two years to 2025. For this, Hertha would have to pay investors around 7 million in interest. In addition, money must be raised through transfers or sponsors in order to cover another 20 million deficit and to save dramatically on personnel and material costs.
Managing director Thomas Herrich (59) has his hands full saving Hertha from bankruptcy after relegation from the Bundesliga.
BZ wanted to interview Herrich on the urgent issues. The club was willing to answer written questions. Read the statements below:
BZ: What exactly is Hertha still missing for the license to be granted by the DFL?
Mr: As already mentioned several times, it is about the proof of the financing of the coming season until June 30th, 2024. We are working intensively on this and are in good dialogue with the DFL in this regard. What I can say is that the funding is based on several pillars.
President Bernstein (l.) and Managing Director Herrich (r.) have big money worries despite the 100 million entry of 777 and CEO Josh Wander Photo: picture alliance/dpa
Are missing guarantees the biggest problem?
No. But they could represent a measure.
How many employees do you have to quit after relegation? How much does that hurt you?
Having to tell people that we have to part with them is certainly one of the most difficult tasks as a manager. We try to keep this share as low as possible, but unfortunately it will not work without it. I’m sure you’ll understand that I’m not going to give you a specific number here. But high cost reductions in material and personnel expenses are necessary.
Will Hertha start the season with a bare chest after main sponsor Autohero didn’t take the unilateral option and dropped out? Could 777 help out here with a subsidiary?
Together with our marketing partner Sportfive, we are working very intensively on being able to present a main sponsor and thus also a jersey partner at the beginning of the coming season. We are currently holding numerous discussions on this, using our entire network.
Is it true that the current sleeve sponsor CG Elementum is also leaving early due to financial problems?
CG Elementum with its CEO Mr. Gröner is a long-standing and reliable partner who has always supported us very generously and as a sponsor. There is no indication of an early exit.
How far are the negotiations about an early contract extension with marketer Sportfive and outfitter Nike (both contracts actually run until 2025) to bring in fresh money?
We are currently examining our options in many areas. However, I cannot confirm the speculation about the partners mentioned.
How do you manage to complete this mammoth program as the sole managing director?
Although I am the sole managing director, I have a good team around me, which supports me in all our challenges.
Are the rumors true that you will be leaving Hertha soon?
No.