Energy drink firm Red Bull has bought U.S. Major League Soccer club, the MetroStars.
The team will change its name and compete in the 2006 season as Red Bull New York, Red Bull said in a statement.
“Our goal is to further strengthen the team and position the New York Red Bulls as the soccer metropolis of the East Coast,” Red Bull chief executive Dietrich Mateschitz said.
Red Bull will also sponsor the the club’s new stadium – which will be called the Red Bull Arena when it opens in 2008.
MLS chief Don Garber welcomed Red Bull’s purchase.
“The addition of Red Bull into our group of owners is a landmark moment for Major League Soccer,” he said. “Dietrich Mateschitz brings international credibility and proven, innovative marketing expertise to Major League Soccer.”
The acquisition will provide Red Bull’s other team team, Austria’s Red Bull Salzburg, with a sister club in the United States.
“Close collaboration between Red Bull Salzburg and Red Bull New York is planned. Synergies in athletic areas as well as in management and marketing will be tapped,” Red Bull said.
“Projected plans include talent-scouting, mutual training camps and friendly matches as well as joint marketing, merchandising and public relations activities,” it said.
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