Back
19.08.2018Bayer 04

Season launch event a success

A day after the winning start to the new campaign against CfR Pforzheim in the DFB Cup, Bayer 04 marked the official start to the anniversary season 2018/19. The Bayer 04 family enjoyed a full range of events on the banks of the Rhine – to get in the mood for the 40th Bundesliga season, which starts next Saturday (25 August, 18.30 CET) in Mönchengladbach.
20180819_B05_Saisoneroeffnung_OPB.jpg

"I'm very optimistic that we will have a successful season," said the chairman of the board Fernando Carro at lunchtime on a stage decorated with black and red balloons and he continued:  "We want to get back in the top four in the league and go as far as we can in the Europa League and the DFB Cup. Of course, we need the support of our fans again."

And that was definitely in evidence on this Sunday in beautiful summer weather: 12,500 Black and Reds found their way to the Neuland Park over the course of the day. Many of them were among the first to find out about Leon Bailey's contract extension. Sporting director Jonas Boldt was the bearer of this positive news – and that was greeted by great applause. "We said we wanted to keep the team together. But not just keep it together as we have very ambitious targets at the end of the day and all the lads who've stayed with us identify with that," said  the 36-year-old. And Rudi Völler, who was unable to attend due to a TV commitment, sent a video message for the fans.

Wide range of events

Whether it was the presentation of the new home kit, the professionally compered FIFA exhibition match on stage between Bayer 04 e-sportsman Marvin 'M4RV' Hinz and a fan prize winner, a preview of the musical '1904', the presentation of the first team squad or one of many interesting talks – there was no shortage of attractions at this family fest. Numerous partners and sponsors plus Bayer 04 sections were on hand to invite fans to try things out, get involved and join in competitions. The commitment shown on the day to provide members and fans with memorable experiences was impressive and brilliantly received: In spite of the very warm weather, young and old gathered in their numbers for six hours at the many marquees and stands.

The autograph session proved to be particularly popular with all the Werkself players and coaching staff, with the exception of Julian Baumgartlinger  (torn knee ligament) and Dominik Kohr (suffering with a cold), taking part for two hours to fulfill the wishes of the fans.

20180819_B04_Saisoneroeffnung_Schueler_04.jpg
Bewerb_Schwadbud_HomepageMediumRectangle_300x250px_Borussia-M-Gladbach_1819.jpg

Related News

eSports
eSports - 12.10.2026

#B04eSports: VBL Club Championship 2026/27 starts on 15 October

The new eSports season is just around the corner. The VBL Club Championship by WOW starts on Thursday 15 October (from 18:00 CEST). And, as every year, here’s an overview: What changes are there? What is staying the same?

Show more
Paneltalk „Rudi lädt ein“
Fans - 12.10.2026

“Rudi invites”: Football, Bayer 04 and Leverkusen during the Nazi period – tickets on sale now

Bayer 04 record-appearance maker Rüdiger Vollborn invites you to another evening in the popular ‘Rudi lädt ein’ series: on Tuesday 10 November, in collaboration with Bayer AG, the focus will be on the Nazi period. The focus will be on football, Bayer 04 and the city of Leverkusen.

Show more
Extreme Networks
Business - 12.10.2026

New network partner: Extreme Networks enters a five-year partnership

Bayer 04 Leverkusen has secured a new network partner in Extreme Networks GmbH. The leading provider of AI-powered network automation has agreed a five-year partnership with the Bundesliga club, running until 30 June 2031. As part of this, the club’s existing Wi-Fi 5 infrastructure will be replaced by more than 400 Wi-Fi 7 access points, which are specifically designed to meet the requirements of a stadium with a high user density. The aim is to enhance the fan experience while optimising operational processes and security.

Show more
Miguel Gutierrez
Bayer 04 - 11.10.2026

8 predecessors and 1 interview that made an impression: Facts & Fun with Miguel Gutiérrez | Werkself Magazine #56

New signing Miguel Gutiérrez has made a good start at Leverkusen and has promptly earned a nomination for Player of the Month in his first few weeks in the Bundesliga. He has scored one goal and provided three assists in four league games. The Spanish left-back has also brought some impressive stats with him to Bayer 04. Issue #56 of the Werkself magazine has taken a look at these figures. ‘Facts & Fun’ with Miguel Gutiérrez.

Show more
Kurzpässe vor #M05B04
Bundesliga - 10.10.2026

Matchday news #M05B04: Werkself on the road in Mainz

With seven points, Mainz 05 are currently joint seventh, level on points with sixth-placed Bayer 04. In today’s head-to-head clash (kick-off: 15:30 CEST), the Werkself must be particularly wary of the clinical Mainz strike duo. For Leverkusen fans who have left it to the last minute, there are still a few tickets available from the matchday ticket office. Those following the Black and Reds from home, on the other hand, have a choice: RTL is broadcasting the match on free-to-air TV, and Werkself Radio is also offering the expert commentary of former Bayer 04 player Falko Götz. Today’s matchday news.

Show more