Leo Neugebauer Extends His Contract with VfB Stuttgart
On 7 December 2025, VfB Stuttgart officially announced the contract extension of Leo Neugebauer, the world-class decathlete and one of Germany’s brightest athletic talents. The announcement was made in front of a packed MHP Arena, highlighting the significance of this milestone not only for Neugebauer but for the club itself. Alongside the contract news, Neugebauer was awarded VfB’s prestigious Gold and Ruby Service Medal, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the club and the broader sporting community.
This moment marked a celebration of athletic excellence, club loyalty, and the shared ambition of both the athlete and VfB Stuttgart.
Neugebauer’s credentials are nothing short of remarkable.
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He is the 2025 World Champion in the decathlon, achieving global recognition in Tokyo.
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He won silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics, becoming the first German decathlete since 1996 to secure an Olympic medal in the event.
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He holds the German record for decathlon, with 8,961 points, set at the 2024 NCAA Championships in Eugene, USA.
These achievements make Neugebauer not only a key figure in German athletics but also a cornerstone of VfB Stuttgart’s identity beyond football. His excellence elevates the club’s profile internationally, bridging the worlds of football and track-and-field.
VfB Stuttgart’s leadership emphasized the broader importance of this contract. Club president Dietmar Allgaier described Neugebauer as “an outstanding athlete and a wonderful ambassador” for the club. Awarding him the highest internal honor at a major football event demonstrates VfB’s commitment to supporting elite athletes in all disciplines, not just football.
Neugebauer himself described VfB as “part of my roots,” expressing a deep personal connection to the club. Despite training abroad in Austin, USA, he emphasized the sense of belonging and stability the club provides. For him, this extension is more than a contract—it is a reaffirmation of trust and shared values.
The extension signals a long-term partnership with strategic importance:
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Athletic Ambitions: Neugebauer aims to maintain his elite level, targeting the 2026 European Championships and preparing for Olympic gold at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
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Club Strategy: VfB Stuttgart strengthens its reputation as a multi-sport institution. By keeping a world-class athlete under its banner, the club boosts its visibility in international athletics.
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Inspiring Talent: Neugebauer’s presence can attract other top athletes to VfB Stuttgart, reinforcing the club as a hub for elite track-and-field talent.
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Fan Engagement: Public celebrations of Neugebauer’s achievements in football arenas deepen the connection between fans and athletes across disciplines, fostering a unified club identity.
In interviews, Neugebauer reflected on the emotional significance of the extension:
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He called it “something very special” to continue being part of the VfB family.
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He expressed gratitude to the club’s leadership, staff, and fans for their ongoing support.
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He highlighted how the club’s backing allows him to focus entirely on training and competition, enhancing his chances for international success.
For Neugebauer, the extension is a platform to continue excelling while remaining closely tied to the club and its community.
Traditionally known for its football team, VfB Stuttgart’s support for Neugebauer signals a broader vision:
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The club is positioning itself as a flagship for elite athletics in Germany, leveraging its football infrastructure to support track-and-field excellence.
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By integrating athletics achievements into club culture, VfB enhances its public image, sponsorship appeal, and long-term fan engagement.
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Celebrating a world-class athlete in front of football fans highlights cross-sport solidarity, promoting a holistic identity for the club.
This approach positions VfB Stuttgart uniquely among German sports clubs, merging elite football and athletics under a single institutional umbrella
Key milestones to watch include:
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2026 European Championships and World Competitions: Neugebauer’s performances will continue to reflect on the club’s international reputation.
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Olympic Preparation: The extension ensures stability as Neugebauer prepares for the 2028 Games.
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Growth of VfB’s Athletics Program: Neugebauer’s presence may attract emerging talent, sponsorship, and greater media attention.
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Fan Integration: Continued engagement of fans across disciplines strengthens club loyalty and cultural impact.
Leo Neugebauer’s contract extension with VfB Stuttgart is far more than a routine renewal. It represents:
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Recognition of unparalleled athletic achievement.
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A commitment to long-term partnership and mutual growth.
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Strategic positioning of VfB Stuttgart as a club that nurtures excellence across multiple sports.
The move cements Neugebauer as both a central figure in German athletics and a core part of VfB Stuttgart’s evolving identity. As the club and athlete look toward the next milestones, this partnership exemplifies the power of shared vision, loyalty, and ambition.