Audi cuts Ingolstadt arts and sports sponsorship

Audi is ending support for several cultural and sports projects in Ingolstadt as it responds to a difficult economic situation, BR reports. The cuts mean the Audi Summer Concerts and a jazz series will not take place next year, while sponsorship for the city’s half-marathon and triathlon is also ending.

The Ingolstadt Chamber Philharmonic had already learned it would lose Audi’s backing. The orchestra’s managing director, Saskia Morbach, said the news came as a surprise despite the ongoing crisis in the car industry. Audi had contributed 100,000 euros and concert revenue, the orchestra said. It is now seeking new sponsors.

Ralf Schmiedeke, who is involved with the Ingolstadt half-marathon, said the withdrawal removes a significant part of its sponsorship budget. Organisers had expected cuts but not a complete exit. They may raise entry fees and are looking for other supporters. The consequences for the half-marathon and the triathlon are not yet clear.

Ingolstadt Mayor Michael Kern described the decision as a painful blow to the city’s social life. He said the events were important to Ingolstadt and urged residents and businesses to help. The city cannot provide funding because it is also making deep cuts as business tax revenue falls.

Audi said the decision had been difficult. The company’s sponsorship will also end for a company run in Heilbronn and a sports club near Neckarsulm. Audi invested more than 33 million euros worldwide in projects last year, including in Mexico and Hungary. The company has not said how much it expects to save through the cuts.