NEW YORK (April 23, 2026) – FC Bayern, one of the biggest and most valuable clubs in world soccer, and Columbia University, one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, today mark ten years of a transformative partnership that has redefined how elite sports organizations and world-class academic programs collaborate.
“Our partnership with FC Bayern Munich has been one of the most enriching collaborations in the history of Columbia’s Master of Science in Sports Management program. Over ten years, we have seen firsthand how pairing Ivy League academic rigor with the operational excellence of a club like FC Bayern produces exceptional professionals ready to lead our industry. To have engaged with nearly 1,000 of our students through this partnership is a testament to the depth of commitment both institutions have shown. We look forward to building on this foundation for many years to come,” commented Scott Rosner, Program Director of the Columbia University Sports Management program.
Through guest lectures, bespoke case studies, and direct access to FC Bayern’s world-renowned business operations, these leaders of tomorrow have gained an unparalleled window into what it takes to build and sustain one of sport’s most iconic brands.
“Ten years ago, we set out to build something meaningful at the intersection of elite soccer and elite education. Today, it has exceeded every expectation and in doing so, matched the FC Bayern tradition of long-term, high-impact partnerships that average ten years in duration,” said Dee Kundra, Managing Director, FC Bayern Munich – Americas.
Beyond the classroom, FC Bayern has delivered more than 20 internship positions over the decade, providing highly capable students with real-life, high-level experience. These placements have helped launch careers and forge lasting professional connections between Columbia graduates and the broader global sports industry.
“We have watched Columbia students go into the industry, on occasion as FC Bayern employees and eventually go on to become leaders across the sports industry. That legacy is something we carry with great pride,” she added. One such example is Luc Timm (‘21SPS), a Columbia Sports Management graduate who today serves as Head of International Business at FC Bayern Munich.
As FC Bayern Munich and Columbia University enter their second decade of partnership, both organizations remain committed to deepening their collaboration and continuing to set the standard for what a truly world-class sports management education looks like. Together, they will continue to shape the leaders who will define the next era of global sport.
About Columbia University
The Columbia University M.S. in Sports Management prepares students with a comprehensive curriculum and access to sports industry practitioners and leaders. Students acquire skills in areas such as entrepreneurship and innovation, global sports management, facility and event management, and sports law and ethics.
The program is available for part-time or full-time enrollment. Learn more about the program here.
About FC Bayern
FC Bayern is one of the world’s most successful sports organizations on and off the field. Since the club’s foundation in 1900, FC Bayern has won 34 national championships, 20 domestic cups as well as six UEFA Champions League titles, making it the most successful German team in history.
FC Bayern is also renowned globally for its financial success, youth development and supporter culture. The club’s unique ownership structure sees more than 430,000 club members own a majority share, more than any other sports organization in the world.
With over 1 billion interested worldwide, FC Bayern is one of the strongest brands in global sports.
In April 2014, FC Bayern opened its first international office in the U.S. to engage with the millions of fans living in the Americas. In March 2017, following the success of the first international venture, the club opened an office in Shanghai in March 2017, Bangkok April 2022 and Seoul in October 2025.
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FC Bayern Munich
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