Wirtschaftsforum: Our world is becoming increasingly digital. This is particularly noticeable in companies. To what extent do you, as a football club, incorporate digitalization into your future planning?

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: I think we are known for having invested heavily in digital development over the past few years. Fortunately, we have Stefan Mennerich, an absolute expert on these topics, whom we value highly. Digital development is extremely important for the future of the club, whether it is for communicating with fans or for merchandising. Therefore, this topic always has a high priority in our executive board and receives full support.

Wirtschaftsforum: Not only the company itself but also the game is becoming increasingly digital: Recently, you revealed that FC Bayern is considering entering the e-sports sector. What makes e-sports interesting for you?

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: As for e-sports, we in the executive board have not yet made a final decision. I believe that we will revisit this topic soon on our agenda and then decide whether we approach it or not.

Wirtschaftsforum: E-sports also allow those of us who are less physically fit to achieve sporting success. To what extent is e-sport really a sport? Where do you position yourself? And what is the mid-term goal for FC Bayern in this area?

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: In my opinion, the central question regarding e-sports is: Is it a meaningful task? Many big clubs have jumped in recently. For me, however, it is important that it is a meaningful commitment that advances FC Bayern and is also profitable. Because at FC Bayern Munich we do nothing just to follow others. It must also be clearly stated that e-sports have only very limited to do with regular football.

Wirtschaftsforum: Since 2002, you have been the CEO of FC Bayern München AG. Has it become easier over time to manage the affairs of this world-class football club?

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: I have now been the CEO of FC Bayern München AG for 17 years and the development during this period can be assessed as very positive overall. Both in terms of sports, as we have won everything there is to win in football during this time. But also from a financial point of view, we have developed very well. In 2002 we had a turnover of 176 million EUR, while last year in 2018 we were able to generate a turnover of 657.4 million EUR. For this year, I can already predict that we will reach new record numbers in both turnover and profit, so the development on both levels can be considered very satisfactory.

Wirtschaftsforum: You have celebrated countless sporting successes both as a former professional footballer and as CEO of FC Bayern München. What still drives you personally as both an entrepreneur and in your current executive role?

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: First of all, I am very grateful that Franz Beckenbauer gave me the opportunity to lead this club as CEO in operations in 2002. We have a responsibility to our fans and our shareholders, and I hope that all parties are satisfied with how we represent and manage the club.

Wirtschaftsforum: For 2019/2020, you predicted an age-related restructuring where there would be an increased focus on young world-class talent – such as the French national player and FIFA World Champion Benjamin Pavard. Renowned, young national players like Joshua Kimmich or Leon Goretzka are already playing for FC Bayern. From your perspective, is further rejuvenation of the squad the necessary next step in order to remain competitive at the top level in German and international football?

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: We are currently undergoing a restructuring. Phase 1 is happening this season, during which we have wonderfully integrated the mentioned players, including Serge Gnabry, and we are very satisfied with their development. Phase 2 follows this summer, where we already have two fixed international quality arrivals with Benjamin Pavard and Lucas Hernández. Whether additional young players will come to FC Bayern in the future, I cannot yet predict reliably at this point. However, I think that we have ensured through this restructuring in two, if not three phases, that the team will continue to play successful football in the future.

Wirtschaftsforum: Again this year, your team, along with your direct competitors from Dortmund and Leipzig, is once again one of the top favorites for the championship title in the 1. Bundesliga. How do you view the progress of this season so far and how is FC Bayern München AG positioned for the future from your perspective?

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge: It's an exciting season this year. We have now won the title six times in a row – once even with a 25-point lead. This year, everything is much closer. It must also be acknowledged that both Dortmund and Leipzig have been working very well. Our goal is clearly to achieve in the remaining games what at times seemed no longer possible: to become German champions again. And of course, to win the cup. Whether we succeed will have to be seen in the next few weeks.

Interview: Andreas Detert | Pictures: FC Bayern München AG