Hamburg Freezers will not Apply for a 2016-17 License

(Hamburg) Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG), owner of the Hamburg Freezers Hockey Team, is planning not to renew its application for the Team to play in the DEL during the 2016/17 season.

Tom Miserendino President & CEO AEG Europe: “Despite our strong commitment to the team and ongoing investment, after 14 years in Hamburg, we continue to face numerous challenges as a result of owning two hockey teams in the same league. Because of this, our goal since 2011 has been to reduce our holdings down to one team. We have been working diligently since then to find a national or international partner to buy the Freezers. Sadly, to date our efforts have been unsuccessful. Owning two teams in the same league is no longer viable, and unfortunately, we have had to make this very difficult decision. “

Applications for the DEL license are due by May 24th and AEG is not intending to file for a license unless we can find a suitable buyer for the club by that date.

“We understand the implications of this decision and how difficult this is for our personnel, players, management team and fans. Our fans are amongst the best supporters in European Ice-Hockey and deserve a team to come back to Hamburg in the future. There is never a good timing for such a decision but we believe that it is right to take this decision now, before getting too far into the planning for the 2016/2017 season,” said Miserendino.

Uwe Frommhold Managing Director Hamburg Freezers: “We are very thankful for the commitment of all our staff and players. We want to thank the Hamburg Freezers fans and partners for their commitment and support. They have provided a great atmosphere and motivation for the team.”

AEG remains committed to Hamburg and the Barclaycard Arena as well as its other assets in Germany including the Eisbären Berlin. The management team in Hamburg under the leadership of Uwe Frommhold will continue to focus on bringing world class sports and entertainment to the city.

Media Contact:

Moritz Hillebrand, 0151-18047774, moritz.hillebrand@aegeurope.com