When Martim Mayer steps into the spotlight for the Benfica elections on the 25th, he’s not just running for president alone; he’s bringing a bold financial blueprint. Speaking to ‘Rádio Renascença’, Mayer laid out a strategy that mixes tradition with modern business. He’s openly keen on the idea of selling the stadium’s naming rights, eyeing a deal worth a hefty 10 million euros each year for a decade. “A contract of 10 million euros per year, times 10 years, is a good contract,” he stated, seeing it as a sensible move for the club’s future.
Mayer’s financial vision extends even further, touching the very ownership structure of Benfica’s corporate entity, the SAD. He suggests welcoming “two strategic shareholders” into the fold. The club currently holds 63.25% of the SAD, but Mayer believes this should rise to 67%. Beyond that, he proposes carving out two 10% stakes for long-term partners. This setup would ensure the club keeps its majority control while bringing in powerful allies.
One name stands out vividly in Mayer’s plan for these new shareholders: Adidas. “Benfica should want Adidas as a shareholder of the SAD,” Mayer declared. He committed to making this a top priority if elected, promising to “make the maximum efforts for this to happen.” The other strategic partner, he suggests, should be rooted in the world of entertainment and streaming. Imagine a company that broadcasts live sports events, bringing that expertise directly into the club. Mayer believes the naming rights for the stadium should connect directly with one of these new partners. “In this logic, the naming of the stadium should be connected to one of these two strategic shareholders. That’s what makes sense,” he noted.
Moving from the boardroom to the pitch, Mayer also envisions a major overhaul of the club’s football operations. He argues for creating a new position: a general director of football. This person would oversee everything, from the smallest academy players to the senior team. This director’s gaze would cover the entire Benfica academy, starting with the under-13 teams. Their responsibilities would include scouting new talent, managing women’s football, looking after the B team, and guiding the under-23 squad.
The goal is to weave a single, unified philosophy through every level of the club, right up to the A team. Mayer explained that this global leader would free up other key figures, like a Mário Branco or a José Mourinho, to focus on immediate results. He pointed out that “Mário Branco and José Mourinho are totally focused on what is the short-term future of the club’s football.” His general director would provide the long-term vision, ensuring all parts work together for sustained success.