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

Arthur
Bayer 04 - 06.05.2026

Bayer 04 extend contract with full-back Arthur to 2031

Bayer 04 Leverkusen have extended the contract with full-back Arthur ahead of schedule. The Werkself have agreed a new deal with the Brazilian to 30 June 2031. The 23-year-old was previously under contract to the summer of 2028.

Show more
Marlene Müller und Achim Feifel
Women - 06.05.2026

Bayer 04 sign midfielder Marlene Müller from RB Leipzig

Bayer 04 Leverkusen continue building the squad for the new season in the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga. The 25-year-old midfielder Marlene Müller has joined the club from RB Leipzig on a contract to 30 June 2028.

Show more
Bayer 04-Fans in der BayArena
Bayer 04 - 06.05.2026

Information on matchday and season ticket prices 2026/27 - Introduction of minimum season ticket use

Bayer 04 are introducing changes to the ticket price structure for the 2026/27 season. In addition to adjusting the ticket prices, the ticket categories will also be reorganised. All season ticket holders have already been informed of the changes by e-mail. The most important information at a glance.

Show more
A New Chapter | Ibo Maza: Familie und Religion sind sein größter Anker
Werkself-TV - 05.05.2026

A new chapter | Ibrahim Maza: Family and religion provide greatest support

Ibrahim Maza joined Bayer 04 from Hertha Berlin in the summer of 2025. The youngster from Berlin developed into a difference-maker in his first season with the Werkself. Find out what makes the highly talented player tick in this very personal interview. Among other things, Maza talks about his Algerian-Vietnamese-German home, the role of his family and the importance of Islam for him both in his private life and in football...

Show more
„Stadiontalk“ in der BayArena
Bayer 04 - 05.05.2026

Stadiontalk at the BayArena: Rolfes, Minister of State Heidmeier and trainees discuss career prospects for young people

Talking to each other instead of about each other - that was the motto of the ‘Stadiontalk’ on Monday in the BayArena. Representatives from Bayer 04 and other companies, politicians and trainees from the region came together to discuss the career prospects for young people as well as existing challenges and hurdles.

Show more