Detroit Lions and 1. FC Köln announce multi-year strategic partnership to unite fans across the U.S. and Germany

The Detroit Lions and German Bundesliga club 1. FC Köln have announced a multi-year strategic partnership. The collaboration aims to expand the global reach of both organizations, deepen fan engagement in the US and Germany, and foster collaboration across sports, community, and commercial platforms.

Lions Senior Vice President Ashton Mullinix expressed excitement about connecting the two fanbases, highlighting their shared proud histories, resilient supporters, and deep cultural roots. The partnership includes developing year-round initiatives.

1. FC Köln, founded in 1948 and one of Germany's most successful and largest traditional clubs, sees this as a way to reach new audiences. Managing Director Philipp Liesenfeld noted the historical link between Cologne and Detroit as automotive industry hubs, both connected to Ford, making the Lions an ideal partner for mutual global expansion.

This partnership aligns with the Lions' long-term strategy to grow in Germany under the NFL's Global Markets Program, which grants clubs international marketing rights for at least five years to build brand awareness outside the US.

The article also lists several other Detroit Lions announcements: Jason Benetti and T.J. Lang joining the preseason TV broadcast team; the 2025 Training Camp presented by Rocket opening July 26; the GameAbove Sports Bowl at Ford Field scheduled for December 26, 2025; featuring a Lions leader during the Detroit INDYCAR race; releasing a 2025 regular season schedule with 12 nationally-televised games including five prime-time games and a Christmas Day matchup; signing 10 undrafted rookie free agents; extending safety Kerby Joseph's contract through 2029; hosting the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2025 Hall of Fame Game on July 31; and extending and expanding their partnership with UMCU, the official credit union.