Inter president Erick Thohir has spoken of the need for his club to change its business model and emulate American sports teams by expanding its brand globally.
Since taking over from Massimo Moratti in November, Thohir has generated curiosity among fans, especially in view of the approaching transfer window. Inter are currently fourth in Serie A.
“I’m certain that Inter’s brand and history can make a lot of money,” the Indonesian told GQ Italia.
“We need to change our business model; we should take inspiration from that of America, where sport is marketed globally.”
“We must focus on an innovative business. When I went into Indonesian TV there were stronger competitors, but we found new ways of doing things and today we are the best.”
Thohir also explained how he was first given the idea of investing in Inter – by the club’s sponsors, tyre manufacturers Pirelli.
“They convinced me – they were building a factory in Jakarta and they told me about this opportunity.”
