It’s common knowledge that football is a billion-pound-business these days. From shirt sponsorships and advertising hoardings to colossal television deals and multi-million pound transfers, the world’s favourite sport is seeing clubs and players seemingly get richer and richer.
Sadly, though, this rule doesn’t seem to be applying to struggling Italian giants AC Milan right now. The seven-time European champions have been mercilessly mocked on social media over the past week after news surfaced of their decision to sell their customised team bus for around €150,000 in order to cut costs. As expected, Twitter users were quick to ridicule Milan, with some very creative alternative travel suggestions…
It’s not the first time that a football team bus has caused a social media stir, either. Last year saw images leak prematurely online of a bus decked out in Arsenal’s colours, sponsors and messages congratulating the team on their FA Cup victory over Hull City – before the game had even been played. Granted, both sides had probably prepared one in advance due to time constraints, and Arsenal’s blushes were spared after a 3-2 win.
Looking to follow in the footsteps of Premier League open top bus parades, an amateur Sunday league side from Colchester decided to get in on the act, hiring a bus – and a few balloons – to celebrate their own success with their adoring fans (who sadly didn’t turn up. Or exist.)
Oh dear. Perhaps next time ‘Duckpond FC’ should leave their bus campaigns in the hands of Transport Media…