The story of Faker having to return two BMW supercars after the expiration of the sponsorship contract has become a hot topic among fans.
Recently, a reporter from the Korean TV channel JTBC disclosed that Faker had to return the two BMW supercars because the sponsorship agreement between the luxury car manufacturer and T1 had officially ended. As a result, he was required to give back the cars.
At first glance, this might seem strange or unfair, but such actions are common in the world of sports, particularly with high-profile sponsors. In promotional image contracts, it is standard practice for sponsors to lend products for the duration of the contract and then reclaim them once the agreement concludes.
This practice is particularly prevalent among companies that sponsor traditional sports such as football and basketball. It is routine for car manufacturers to lend vehicles to players during the contract period and retrieve them once the collaboration ends.
However, what has sparked debate among Faker’s fans is the fact that BMW once presented a car to him as a birthday gift. Specifically, the car in question is a 2021 BMW 550i, valued at around $60k. This vehicle was gifted to Faker on his 25th birthday and was described at the time as a significant and special present from the sponsor.
During the car’s handover, T1’s CEO Joe Marsh personally presented the gift to him, generating admiration and excitement among fans. It was touted as the most extravagant gift Faker had ever received from a sponsor. Although Faker has received numerous gifts from renowned brands in the past, these have typically been gaming gear or apparel from brands like Nike and Adidas.
The situation has stirred emotions among Faker’s fans, as many believed the car to be a permanent gift rather than a loan tied to the sponsorship contract. This misunderstanding has fueled the ongoing discussion within the fan community about the nature of sponsorship agreements and the obligations they entail.