Have you ever heard the rumor that Rakuten owns Barcelona? It’s a question that has been circulating around the internet for some time now.
But is there any truth to it? Let’s take a closer look.
Who is Rakuten?
Firstly, let’s understand who Rakuten is. Rakuten is a Japanese electronic commerce and online retailing company based in Tokyo. The company was founded in 1997 by Hiroshi Mikitani, and over the years, it has expanded its reach into various sectors such as finance, telecommunications, and media.
What is Barcelona?
Barcelona, on the other hand, refers to the Spanish professional football club based in Barcelona, Catalonia. The club was founded in 1899 and has since grown to become one of the most successful clubs in history.
So, Does Rakuten Own Barcelona?
The simple answer to this question is no; Rakuten does not own Barcelona. However, this doesn’t mean that there isn’t a relationship between the two entities.
In 2017, Rakuten signed a four-year sponsorship deal with Barcelona worth €55 million per year. As part of this agreement, Rakuten became the main global sponsor of the football club and also secured naming rights for its home stadium – Camp Nou.
This sponsorship deal has led to various rumors and misconceptions that Rakuten might own Barcelona. However, it’s important to note that this is not true. While they may have a significant commercial relationship with each other, they are still separate entities.
The Benefits of Sponsorship
Sponsorship deals like the one between Rakuten and Barcelona are common in sports and entertainment industries. They provide benefits for both parties involved.
For Barcelona, having a global sponsor like Rakuten provides them with financial stability and allows them to invest more money into their team and facilities. It also helps the club expand its reach into new markets, attract new fans, and increase its brand awareness worldwide.
For Rakuten, sponsoring Barcelona provides them with an opportunity to promote their brand to a global audience and align themselves with one of the most successful and recognizable football clubs in the world. It enables them to reach new customers, generate more revenue, and improve their brand image.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, Rakuten does not own Barcelona. While they do have a strong commercial relationship with each other, they are still separate entities. The sponsorship deal between the two has brought mutual benefits for both parties involved and has helped them achieve their respective goals.
It’s essential to separate fact from fiction when it comes to rumors like these. By doing so, we can avoid spreading misinformation and ensure that we have a clear understanding of the truth.