A HORRENDOUS STORY FROM AUSTRIA

Last updated : 06 September 2005 By editor

http://www.ultras.at/tradition/index-en.shtml

‘A billionaire and his business company (Red Bull energy drink) take over football club Austria Salzburg for a ridiculous price. At first glance it looked like a win-win situation: Red Bull investments would lead to success on the pitch and Red Bull could gain access to a new clientele.

‘Sooner or later it became obvious, that the new owner planned to totally annihilate SV Austria Salzburg and supporters clearly voiced that there are certain limits. Talks with club representatives and interviews gave the impression that "tradition is of importance" to the new owner and that "Austria Salzburg remains Austria Salzburg". Behind the scenes, the annihilation of Salzburg’s traditional football club was in progress according to the slogan "the brand is everything, only Red Bull counts." The 1994 UEFA-Cup finalist and now struggling SV Austria Salzburg lost his traditional colours (violet and white) and furthermore a new club crest, including the Red Bull bulls, was introduced.

‘Since the takeover the club is officially established in 2005! A slap in the face to all supporters, fans and ultras who supported their 1933 founded team in the nerve-racking relegation battles over the last years.

‘Business and commerce is a big problem in Austrian football. We think that business is not only threatening Austrian football but football on the whole. Our case seems to be the beginning of a new era in modern football. Today it's tiny Austria where "Red Bull vs. Magna" is the weekend’s top game. But sooner or later, it could be that T-Mobile play Vodafone in the UEFA-Champions-League final.

Therefore: Wake up before it's too late! Help us to fight modern football on September the 17th and 18th. Stand up for football the way we love it. "Kick out business! Stop Red Bull and modern football!"

‘We hope to stop Red Bull with your support. A successful campaign could definitely show the way for others! In case you are willing to show your support with banners etc, we hope to hear from you via e-mail:

tradition@tgs92.com or tradition@ultras.at

The supporters of SV Austria Salzburg.