Grischa Prömel, Stuttgart’s new signing and Champions League player, has turned down a club Mercedes to keep driving his inherited Ford Fiesta. His decision, rooted in family ties and personal values, has sparked curiosity and jokes among teammates.
When Grischa Prömel arrived at Stuttgart’s training ground for the first time, it wasn’t his football skills that caught the eye, but the car he drove: a Ford Fiesta that has been on the road for over two decades. While most top-level footballers are known for their luxury vehicles, Prömel’s choice stands out for its simplicity and story.
The 31-year-old midfielder, who joined Stuttgart ahead of their Champions League campaign, has made it clear that cars have never been a priority for him. “Cars are not important to me. I haven’t even started a family yet, so why would I buy a new car?” he explained, according to German media. His stance has become a talking point in the dressing room, where high-end models are the norm.
Cars are not important to me. I haven’t even started a family yet, so why would I buy a new car?
Stuttgart’s partnership with Mercedes means every player is offered a new car from the iconic brand at the start of the season. Prömel, however, politely declined the offer, choosing instead to stick with his aging Ford Fiesta. The car, inherited from his brother after it was originally gifted by their grandparents, carries sentimental value that outweighs any desire for a luxury upgrade.
His decision has led to light-hearted teasing from teammates, especially when parked alongside vehicles like Deniz Undav’s Rolls-Royce, valued at around €400,000. Yet Prömel remains unfazed, content with his modest ride and the memories it holds. This approach echoes the choices of other footballers who have resisted the lure of expensive cars, such as Fabián Ruiz, who continues to drive a Smart Fortwo despite a trophy-laden career.
Stories of footballers and their cars often make headlines, whether it’s about extravagant purchases or, as in Prömel’s case, a refusal to follow the crowd. The contrast is especially stark when compared to players like Marcos Llorente, who recently made news for arriving at Atlético de Madrid training in a Ferrari worth €350,000—a moment covered in detail by RUSSPAIN.
Prömel’s story highlights a quieter, more personal side of football life, where family history and individual values can outweigh status symbols. While luxury remains the standard in many footballers’ garages, his choice is a reminder that not every player is driven by the same ambitions off the pitch.
For context, the culture of gifting luxury cars to players is common in top European clubs, often as part of sponsorship deals. Yet, as Prömel’s example shows, personal attachment and practicality sometimes win out over prestige. His decision may be unusual, but it reflects a growing awareness among some athletes to prioritize what matters most to them, regardless of outside expectations.
