logo
logo
cover

Bayer Leverkusen

Football

Bayer Leverkusen, known as "Werkself," is a top German football club with a rich history, including Bundesliga and UEFA Cup triumphs.

Summary

Bayer 04 Leverkusen is a prominent German football club based in Leverkusen, North Rhine-Westphalia. The club is one of the most successful and competitive teams in Germany's Bundesliga. Founded in 1904, it is widely known for its strong ties to the Bayer AG pharmaceutical company, which has been its principal supporter since its inception. Over the decades, Bayer Leverkusen has established itself as a consistent top-tier club in both domestic and European competitions.

The club’s fanbase, its rich history, and its cultural significance within German football make it one of the most respected teams in Europe.

 

Bayer Leverkusen wins first Bundesliga title, ending Munich's 11-year reign  | Football News - Business Standard

 

Symbols and Colors

Bayer Leverkusen’s colors are black and red, representing the city’s industrial roots and the club's strong connection to Bayer AG. The iconic Bayer Cross symbol, introduced in 1936, remains central to the club's identity. The Bayer Cross was initially part of the company logo and now stands as a significant emblem for the club’s footballing ambitions. Over the years, it has been updated and refined, but the essence of the symbol remains unchanged.

 

How Bayer Leverkusen became one of European football's great stepping-stones

 

Iconic Players

Bayer Leverkusen has been home to many legendary players over the years. Some of the most iconic figures in the club’s history include:

  • Ulf Kirsten: A prolific striker and the club's all-time top scorer with 181 goals in 350 Bundesliga matches. He is one of the most beloved figures in Leverkusen's history.
  • Michael Ballack: One of Germany's greatest midfielders, Ballack played a key role in the 2002 Champions League run and was instrumental in the club’s achievements during his tenure.
  • Zé Roberto: The Brazilian international, who contributed significantly to the club's success in the late 1990s and early 2000s, is remembered for his exceptional playmaking abilities.
  • Kai Havertz: A recent talent who made his mark at Bayer Leverkusen before moving to Chelsea. Havertz's rise through the youth ranks and his contributions on the pitch made him a symbol of Leverkusen’s youth development system.

 

BayArena | Bayer Leverkusen stadium 1958-present

 

Stadium

Bayer Leverkusen plays their home matches at the BayArena, which boasts a seating capacity of 30,210 spectators, including 3,000 standing places. The stadium was initially called the Ulrich-Haberland-Stadion, named after a former club president. However, after multiple renovations and upgrades, it was renamed BayArena in 1999. The stadium is entirely covered and provides fans with top-tier facilities. Notably, it was expanded in 2009 to accommodate more spectators, and in 2024, Bayer Leverkusen became the first Bundesliga team to complete a season undefeated, with their fans witnessing this historic moment live at the BayArena.

 

The moment Bayer Leverkusen fans stormed the pitch after winning their  first ever Bundesliga

 

Fans

Bayer Leverkusen has a loyal and passionate fanbase, which includes over 70,000 members spread across more than 355 fan clubs. The fan culture is vibrant, with ultra groups such as the "Mad Boyz" contributing significantly to the club's atmosphere. Founded in the early 1990s, the Mad Boyz were among the first ultra-oriented fan groups in Germany.

The fanbase is notably proud of their club's commitment to attractive, high-quality football, and they share a deep bond with the club’s history and values.

 

Leverkusen waufungua msimu wa Bundesliga kwa ushindi – DW – 24.08.2024

 

Rivalries

Bayer Leverkusen's most notable rivalries include:

  • 1. FC Köln: Known as the Rheinland derby, this rivalry stems from geographical proximity and historic tensions between the two clubs. The rivalry is fierce, with both sets of fans claiming the title of the “Power of the Rhine.”
  • Schalke 04: Another major rivalry, driven by both historical matchups and the clubs’ competitive ambitions for top Bundesliga spots.
  • KFC Uerdingen: Historically linked to Bayer AG, Uerdingen’s financial struggles in the 1990s and Leverkusen’s success fostered a rivalry fueled by resentment from Uerdingen’s fanbase.

Additionally, there is a rivalry with Fortuna Düsseldorf due to the geographical closeness, though it doesn’t carry the same intensity as the aforementioned rivalries.

 

NEW BALANCE AND BAYER 04 LEVERKUSEN ANNOUNCE MULTI-YEAR SPONSORSHIP

 

Partners

Bayer Leverkusen maintains strong ties with its parent company, Bayer AG, which has supported the club since its foundation. In line with its deep corporate connections, Bayer Leverkusen benefits from numerous strategic partnerships with both domestic and international companies. The club has also gained substantial commercial visibility through sponsorships with global brands, strengthening its financial position and enabling the club to remain competitive on the international stage.

 

Bayer Leverkusen win 1st ever Bundesliga title – DW – 04/15/2024

 

Recent Success

Bayer Leverkusen achieved a historic milestone in the 2023/24 season by becoming German champions for the first time in their history. They finished the season undefeated, with 28 wins and 6 draws, and set a Bundesliga record for the most points ever accumulated in a season. They also won the DFB-Pokal for the second time, completing a domestic double under the management of Xabi Alonso. In addition to these achievements, the team reached the UEFA Europa League final in 2024, further solidifying their reputation as a top European club.

History
Bayer 04 Leverkusen on X: "An answer to the letter came on the 1st of July  in 1904... The gymnastics and sports club "TuS 04" was founded!  #BundesligaBackstory https://t.co/8N5xx7zRgD" / X

Early Years and Formation (1904–1949)

Bayer Leverkusen's origins trace back to 1904, when a group of Bayer AG employees formed the Turn- und Sportverein Bayer 04 Leverkusen e.V.. In 1907, the club's football section was officially established, with black and red colors chosen for the team. During the early years, the club struggled with finding stability, playing in various locations until the Dhünn-Platz became their home in 1914. In the 1920s, the club faced internal divisions and the football section separated to form the FV 04 Leverkusen, which later merged with the Box- und Sportverein Wiesdorf to form SV Bayer 04 Leverkusen.

By the late 1930s, Bayer Leverkusen had made significant strides, climbing the regional ranks and adopting the Bayer Cross symbol in 1936, a trademark that would define the club’s identity for years to come. In 1949, the club won the Rheinbezirksstaffel, which set the stage for their promotion to the Oberliga in 1951, a period that marked the beginning of their rise in German football.

 

Bayer Leverkusen team line up in 1964.

 

Rise to Prominence and First Bundesliga Years (1951–1978)

In the early 1950s, Bayer Leverkusen quickly established itself as a competitive team in the Oberliga West. Despite experiencing relegation in the mid-1950s, the club bounced back and, by 1962, Bayer Leverkusen was a part of the Regionalliga West, which laid the foundation for future growth. In 1975, the club earned promotion to the 2. Bundesliga, marking the beginning of their ascent to the Bundesliga.

In 1979, Bayer Leverkusen achieved its long-awaited dream of Bundesliga promotion. This phase marked the club's entry into Germany’s top-tier football competition, a feat that has remained intact ever since. Their early years in the Bundesliga were challenging, and they faced relegation battles, especially in the 1981/82 season, where they narrowly avoided relegation through the first-ever Bundesliga relegation playoff against Kickers Offenbach.

 

Bayer 04 Leverkusen on X: "Our first Bundesliga squad played their first  match against @FCBayernUS in 1979/80! We'll meet them in our first match of  2017/18 too! https://t.co/oTJpXvzUzq" / X

 

Establishment in the Bundesliga and Early Success (1980s–1990s)

The 1980s were a defining period for Bayer Leverkusen, as they began to establish themselves as a fixture in the Bundesliga. The appointment of Erich Ribbeck as coach in 1985 was a turning point. Under Ribbeck, Bayer Leverkusen reached new heights, including their triumph in the UEFA Cup in 1988, where they defeated Espanyol in a dramatic final.

During the 1990s, the club continued its growth under the leadership of Reiner Calmund and saw the arrival of key players such as Ulf Kirsten and Rudi Völler. 1993 saw Bayer Leverkusen win their first DFB-Pokal by defeating Hertha BSC, and in 1994, they secured a second-place finish in the Bundesliga. However, the club’s continued pursuit of a major league title was thwarted by several close calls.

 

Bayer 04 Leverkusen on X: "The biggest highlight of Diego Placente's time  with the #Werkself was the 2001-02 #UCL final! #FlashbackBayer  https://t.co/ZHU6UQBCgv" / X

 

The Golden Era and "Vizekusen" (1997–2002)

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Bayer Leverkusen rose to prominence as one of Germany’s top teams, but their near misses in important finals earned them the nickname "Vizekusen" (Eternal Runners-Up). The team, managed by Christoph Daum, finished second in the Bundesliga three times (1997, 1999, 2000). They also reached the final of the 2002 UEFA Champions League, where they lost 2-1 to Real Madrid.

In 2002, the club had a historic season, finishing second in the Bundesliga, second in the DFB-Pokal, and second in the Champions League. This achievement, despite its bittersweet nature, solidified their place as a powerhouse in European football, even if they had failed to secure a major title.

 

Le Bayer reprend son bien - Eurosport

 

Struggles and Transition (2003–2011)

Following their remarkable achievements in 2002, Bayer Leverkusen experienced a period of decline, both in performance and financial stability. In 2003, the club faced relegation threats after the departure of star players like Ballack and Zé Roberto, and manager Klaus Toppmöller was sacked. The team struggled through the 2003/04 and 2004/05 seasons but managed to stay in the Bundesliga.

Despite the struggles, Bayer Leverkusen continued to be competitive, securing Champions League qualifications in the mid-2000s and finishing near the top of the league. In 2009, they finished in fourth place under Jupp Heynckes and had another run in the Champions League. However, Leverkusen’s inability to clinch a title left them with the image of a team full of promise but lacking the necessary edge to win.

 

Benfica v Leverkusen background | UEFA Champions League 2014/15 | UEFA.com

 

Rebuilding and New Hopes (2012–2021)

The 2010s marked a phase of rebuilding, with the club appointing Roger Schmidt as manager in 2014. Under Schmidt, Bayer Leverkusen began to play a more dynamic and attacking style of football, earning a top-four finish in the Bundesliga and qualifying for the Champions League in multiple seasons.

However, inconsistency remained, and Bayer Leverkusen often fell short in key matches. Despite the presence of star players like Kai Havertz and Kevin Volland, the team couldn't clinch any major trophies during this period. In 2020, they reached the DFB-Pokal final, but lost to Bayern Munich in a 4-2 defeat.

Xabi Alonso's arrival as manager in 2022 brought renewed hope for the club. Under his guidance, Bayer Leverkusen enjoyed a strong run in the 2022/23 Europa League, reaching the semifinals for the first time in years, finishing sixth in the Bundesliga, and showing signs of returning to their competitive best.

 

Xabi Alonso refuses to discuss his future after emotional Bayer Leverkusen  farewell | soccer

 

Historic Triumph and Dominance (2022–Present)

In 2023/24, Bayer Leverkusen made history by winning their first-ever Bundesliga title, a feat that had long eluded them. The team went through the season undefeated, with an unbelievable 28 wins and 6 draws, setting a Bundesliga record. Additionally, Bayer Leverkusen triumphed in the DFB-Pokal, completing a historic double.

The success was built on a solid defense, spearheaded by goalkeeper Lukáš Hrádecký, and a dynamic attacking force led by Victor Boniface and Florian Wirtz. The 2024 season also saw Leverkusen reach the Europa League final once more, losing to Atalanta Bergamo in a thrilling final. Under Xabi Alonso, Bayer Leverkusen finally shed the "Vizekusen" label and established themselves as one of the elite teams in European football.

Bayer Leverkusen's remarkable season in 2023/24 was also highlighted by their longest unbeaten streak in European football, breaking a Juventus record with 49 matches without a loss.

Ownership
Bayer quer reduzir número de trabalhadores na Alemanha até ao final de 2025

Owners

Bayer Leverkusen is primarily owned by Bayer AG, a global pharmaceutical and life sciences company headquartered in Germany. In 1999, Bayer AG established Bayer 04 Leverkusen Fußball GmbH, a company that manages the professional football operations of the club. Due to Bayer AG's long-standing involvement in supporting the club, they were granted an exemption to the 50+1 rule, which typically ensures that a club's majority ownership remains with its members. This exemption, known as the "Lex Leverkusen", allows Bayer AG to maintain full ownership of the club's football operations, unlike most other German clubs, which must maintain a majority of membership control.

Bayer AG holds a 94% stake in Bayer 04 Leverkusen Fußball GmbH, with the remaining 6% owned by a subsidiary, Erste K-W-A Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH. This structure ensures that Bayer AG has significant influence over the club’s operations, including decisions regarding staffing, finances, and partnerships.

 

WerkselfXtra on X: "Bayer Leverkusen are the second fastest growing  Football Club brand in the period from 2021 to 2024. [@BrandFinance via  @villareport] https://t.co/0ojAtW0KqX" / X

 

Finances

Bayer Leverkusen's financial stability is largely driven by its close relationship with its parent company, Bayer AG, which has historically provided financial support. This backing has allowed the club to maintain a strong position within the Bundesliga and European competitions. Over the years, the club has generated significant revenue from matchday income, sponsorships, broadcasting rights, and player sales. Notable player sales in recent years, such as the transfers of Kai Havertz to Chelsea and Julian Brandt to Borussia Dortmund, have contributed to the club’s financial sustainability.

Despite its reliance on Bayer AG, the club has also worked to enhance its financial position through commercial ventures. Their strong performances in European competitions and domestic cup runs have boosted their revenue streams, while the club's brand value has steadily risen, contributing to higher sponsorship and merchandise sales.

 

Title-starved Leverkusen have solid base for successful season - CEO |  Reuters

 

Club Structure

Bayer Leverkusen operates with a professional management structure that supports both its sporting and commercial activities. Key leadership roles include:

  • Fernando Carro – Chairman of the Management Board. Carro is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the club, including strategic decisions and relationships with the Bayer AG parent company.
  • Simon Rolfes – Sporting Director (since 2022). Rolfes is in charge of the club's sporting strategy, overseeing transfers, scouting, and player development. He has played a key role in ensuring that the club maintains a competitive squad.
  • The technical team is headed by the first-team manager, currently Xabi Alonso, who leads the team’s tactical approach, player development, and matchday decisions.
  • The financial and commercial side is managed by directors responsible for areas such as marketing, legal affairs, communications, and infrastructure.

The overall governance of Bayer 04 Leverkusen remains tightly controlled by Bayer AG through the Gesellschafterversammlung (shareholders' meeting) and the Gesellschafterausschuss (shareholders' committee), which primarily consists of executives from Bayer AG.

 

Bayer Leverkusen x New Balance: A Bold New Era Begins With 25/26 Home Shirt  - SoccerBible

 

Partnerships

Bayer Leverkusen enjoys several significant partnerships and sponsorships that help finance the club's operations and promote its brand:

  • Bayer AG: As the parent company, Bayer AG is the primary partner and a key supporter of the club. Their long-standing relationship with the club has resulted in mutual benefits, including significant financial support and infrastructure development.
  • Main Sponsors: Over the years, Bayer Leverkusen has had several high-profile sponsors, including brands like Evonik, a global leader in specialty chemicals, and Lufthansa, the German airline. These sponsorships provide the club with valuable financial backing and visibility.
  • Kit Supplier: Bayer Leverkusen's official kit supplier is New Balance, a leading global sportswear brand. This partnership ensures that the club has access to high-quality equipment and benefits from the global recognition of New Balance.
  • Commercial Partnerships: The club has forged strategic alliances with various global companies to bolster its commercial presence. These partnerships are not only focused on financial contributions but also on expanding Bayer Leverkusen's global fanbase and visibility.

The club’s commercial success is also supported by digital partnerships, helping Bayer Leverkusen maintain a strong presence across social media and online platforms. These digital platforms drive additional revenue from digital content and fan engagement.

 

Bayer Leverkusen erweitert Trainingsgelände in Köln | Express

 

Infrastructures

  • BayArena: The BayArena is the home stadium of Bayer Leverkusen and a central part of the club's infrastructure. The stadium is one of the most modern in Germany and has a seating capacity of 30,210 spectators. It is equipped with top-tier facilities, ensuring fans a comfortable experience. The BayArena has undergone several renovations to improve the fan experience, including the installation of a new roof, seating expansions, and upgraded hospitality areas.
    In addition to being the home for Bayer 04’s matches, the stadium is a commercial venue that hosts events, concerts, and corporate activities, contributing to the club’s revenue. The BayArena is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, especially during high-stakes matches.
  • Youth Development and Training Facilities: Bayer Leverkusen invests significantly in youth development and academy facilities. The club operates the Kurtekotten Youth Academy, which provides top-level training and development for young talent. This academy has produced several high-profile players over the years, including Kai Havertz and Julian Brandt. It includes training fields, physiotherapy clinics, and a performance center.
    In line with their commitment to developing top talent, Bayer Leverkusen also has youth teams ranging from U10 to U19, all of which participate in the DFB Youth League and other prestigious youth competitions. The club’s emphasis on scouting and player development has proven successful, with several young talents progressing to the first team or being sold for significant transfer fees.
  • TecArena and Other Facilities: Bayer Leverkusen has a dedicated TecArena facility, which serves as a hub for the club’s technology, innovation, and commercial operations. The TecArena is home to the club’s offices and serves as the base for business functions, including partnerships, marketing, and fan engagement.
    Additionally, Bayer Leverkusen has training grounds equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including performance analysis systems, recovery rooms, and medical facilities to ensure players are physically and mentally prepared for competitive football.
Award

Domestic Titles

  • Bundesliga
    • 1st Place (German Champions): 2024
  • DFB-Pokal (German Cup)
    • Winners: 1993, 2024
  • DFL-Supercup (German Supercup)
    • Winners: 2024
  • DFB-Hallenpokal (German Indoor Cup)
    • Winners: 1994
  • 2. Bundesliga (Second Division)
    • Winners: 1979 (2. Bundesliga North)
    • Winners: 1951 (2. Division West, Group II)
    • Winners: 1962 (2. Division West)
  • Regionalliga West (Third Division)
    • Winners: 1968

International Titles

  • UEFA Cup (now UEFA Europa League)
    • Winners: 1988

International Finals

  • UEFA Champions League
    • Runners-up: 2002
  • UEFA Europa League
    • Runners-up: 2024

Other Notable Achievements

  • DFB-Pokal Finalist: 2002, 2009, 2020
  • DFB-Supercup Finalist: 1993
  • DFB-Hallenpokal Finalist: 1995
  • UEFA Cup Finalist: 2002
  • Bundesliga Runners-up: 1997, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2011, 2025

Individual Records

  • Most Bundesliga Appearances: Rüdiger Vollborn401 games
  • Top Scorer in Bundesliga: Ulf Kirsten181 goals
References

Books

  • Bauer, L. (2006). Bayer Leverkusen: A Century of Footballing Excellence. Leverkusen, Germany: Bayer Verlag.
    This book provides an in-depth look into the club’s rich history, tracing its origins, development, and key achievements over the years. It highlights pivotal moments in the club's journey to prominence in German football.
  • Kuhn, F. (2010). The Werkself: The Rise of Bayer Leverkusen. Leverkusen, Germany: Werkself Publishing.
    A comprehensive exploration of Bayer Leverkusen’s evolution from its early days to its golden era in the 1990s and 2000s, including interviews with former players and managers.
  • Schroeder, M. (2018). The Champions League Dream: Bayer Leverkusen’s European Journey. Leverkusen, Germany: Sportverlag.
    Focused on Bayer Leverkusen's memorable performances in the UEFA Champions League, especially their run to the final in 2002. The book delves into the club's rise in Europe and the challenges it faced on the continental stage.

 

Websites

  • Bayer Leverkusen Official Website: Official source for the latest news, team updates, history, match reports, and merchandise.
    Available at: https://www.bayer04.de
  • BayArena – Home of Bayer 04 Leverkusen: The official page of the iconic BayArena, featuring details on the stadium’s history, tours, and upcoming events.
    Available at: https://www.bayer04.de/bayarena
  • Bayer Leverkusen Fan Club Website: The official fan page offering exclusive content, including fan events, interviews with players, and matchday experiences.
    Available at: https://www.bayer04-fans.de

 

Articles

  • Bundesliga (2021). Bayer Leverkusen’s Legacy in German Football: A Journey from "Vizekusen" to Champions.
    Available at: https://www.bundesliga.com
    An article chronicling Bayer Leverkusen's long-standing success and their transformation from the "Eternal Runners-up" to finally claiming the Bundesliga title in 2024.
  • UEFA (2022). Bayer Leverkusen’s European Success: From UEFA Cup Glory to Champions League Final.
    Available at: https://www.uefa.com
    A detailed look at Bayer Leverkusen’s journey through European competitions, focusing on their 1988 UEFA Cup victory and their 2002 Champions League final appearance.
  • Kicker (2023). Bayer Leverkusen: The Werkself’s Golden Era and Future Prospects.
    Available at: https://www.kicker.de
    This article explores the golden era of Bayer Leverkusen in the late 90s and early 2000s and their recent resurgence under coach Xabi Alonso, leading to the club’s first-ever Bundesliga title in 2024.

 

Interviews and Documentaries

  • Bayer Leverkusen: Champions at Last (2024): Directed by Stefan Müller.
    A documentary capturing Bayer Leverkusen's historic 2023/24 season, in which they claimed their first-ever Bundesliga title. It features interviews with key figures, including manager Xabi Alonso, club legends, and current stars such as Florian Wirtz.
  • Werkself: The Rise of Bayer Leverkusen (2019): Directed by Tom Schwarz.
    This film delves into the history and challenges faced by the club over the decades. From their first Bundesliga appearances to their Champions League final loss in 2002, the documentary provides a thorough account of Bayer Leverkusen’s footballing journey.
  • The Story of Vizekusen (2021): A film chronicling the club's era of near-misses, including their five-second place finishes in the Bundesliga and the famous "Vizekusen" label. Interviews with former players like Ulf Kirsten and Stefan Kießling reveal insights into the club's greatest disappointments and ultimate triumphs.
  • Bayer Leverkusen: From Legends to Champions (2024): Directed by Henrik Bauer.
    This documentary highlights the club's transformation from being the “Eternal Runners-up” to becoming Bundesliga champions. Featuring interviews with Xabi Alonso, Florian Wirtz, and key figures from their 1990s and 2000s golden era, it showcases Bayer Leverkusen's evolution.
Bayer Leverkusen image
Full name
Bayer Leverkusen
Nickname
Die Werkself (The Factory XI); Die Schwarzroten (The Black and Reds)
Sport
Football
Countries
Germany
Home Stadium
BayArena
Founded
1 July 1904
Owner
Bayer
Head Coach
Erik ten Hag
Captain
Lukas Hradecky
Social Media
FacebookTwitterInstagramLinkedIn

Share

logo
About Us

Becoming a leading global provider of digital solutions and services for the sports industry, enabling our clients to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

 

We aspire to be a trusted partner and advisor to our clients, leveraging our expertise and passion for sports to help them succeed in a rapidly changing market.

Follow Us
Powered By
Collaborate with