Mercedes-Benz and FC Köln buy stakes in SK Gaming

FC Köln and Daimler AG (parent company of Mercedes-Benz) have bought substantial stakes in the German multigaming organisation SK Gaming. The companies reached an agreement with ESforce, who will sell 67 per cent of its stake in SK Gaming.. According to the deal, Mercedes-Benz will appear on the front of SK Gaming’s jerseys and FC Köln will have its #effzeh branding present on the sleeves.

ESforce acquired the stake in SK Gaming in September 2016, the team has recently stepped up its involvement in League of Legends as it became one of the new teams to join the franchised League of Legends European Championship (LEC). A move which undoubtedly made the organisation more attractive to investors. ESforce stated that this sale will allow them to focus on its other organisation Virtus.pro.

In a statement, ESforce said: “We are glad to have reached a deal with Daimler AG and FC Koeln. Such a major acquisition deal on the esports market is a showcase of not only our partners’ sincere motivation to contribute to the development of global esports but also SK Gaming’s remarkable performance throughout the years, which has made this brand one of the most well-recognised and beloved by esports fans around the world.

FC Köln has an existing partnership with SK Gaming which began in early 2018.

ESforce went on to add: “As the leading esports holding and one of the key market players worldwide, we strive to keep pace with the development of the global esports industry and act in accordance with all international regulations, among which the World Esports Association’s multiple team ownership rules. Together with other global esports organisations, we will continue to support and bolster esports as well as adhere to highest international standards.”