The New York Red Bulls have made history with their remarkable journey to the MLS Cup final, exhibiting resilience and determination throughout the playoffs. On Saturday, they faced off against the LA Galaxy, marking the Red Bulls’ first final appearance since 2008.
This season has been particularly significant for the franchise, which is experiencing its best financial year to date. Attendance has increased by 10% compared to last year, as the excitement around the team’s playoff run has captivated fans. Marc de Grandpré, president of the Red Bulls, noted the surge in interest, with many fans who were hesitant about renewing their season tickets now committing to do so. “We see the momentum,” he stated. “The business is going in the right direction.”
As the lowest playoff seed to reach the final and with hopes to overcome the esteemed LA Galaxy, the Red Bulls are looking to solidify their newfound success. They aim to attract sponsors and season ticket holders, a goal that appears achievable given that renewals with major partners like Audi and Heineken have significantly increased.
This successful season is underpinned by the youthfulness of the roster, which is one of the youngest in MLS, and future developments including a new training facility set to open in New Jersey. The club, owned by the energy drink company Red Bull, is exploring new sponsorships, especially for naming rights at the Red Bull Arena, their home stadium.
De Grandpré expressed optimism that the team’s impressive playoff run would help secure a partner for those naming rights, stating that everyone wants to align with a successful team. He emphasized that the Red Bulls are in a unique position to capitalize on their performance both on and off the pitch.
Furthermore, the ownership has shown commitment to their staff by flying key personnel and partners to Los Angeles for the game and purchasing thousands of tickets for season ticket holders and sponsors. “You never know when you’re going to back in this moment,” de Grandpré remarked, highlighting the importance of appreciating this opportunity.
In summary, the Red Bulls are not only celebrating their achievement in reaching the MLS Cup final but are also strategically positioning themselves for future success. Their commitment to leveraging this moment could result in long-lasting benefits for the franchise, both in terms of performance and financial growth, while fostering a stronger connection with the community of supporters. The spirit of unity and ambition shines through, promising exciting prospects for the team and its fans moving forward.