European Athletics: Alisa Vainio misses out on EA prize money but secures major sponsorship bonuses

Alisa Vainio, who clinched the marathon gold medal at the European Athletics Championships, will not receive prize money directly from European Athletics. Despite this, she is set for a substantial financial windfall thanks to significant bonuses stipulated in her partnership agreements for winning the EM title.

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I cannot give a range. We have a duty of confidentiality regarding this matter.

Her manager, Julius Taskinen, revealed that Vainio's main sponsor, shoe manufacturer Asics, along with other partners like Huawei, have clauses for substantial bonuses tied to medal achievements. While Taskinen declined to specify exact figures due to a non-disclosure agreement, he confirmed the bonuses are "significant."

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We can talk about significant sums.

Taskinen, himself a marathon runner, believes Vainio's European championship victory has considerably elevated her profile. "The win is always a win. Also, last spring's victory in Seville clearly raised her value, not to mention her fifth place in the World Championships in Tokyo," he stated. He added that Vainio is now a more sought-after athlete among race promoters.

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The win is always a win. Also, last spring's victory in Seville clearly raised her value, not to mention her fifth place in the World Championships in Tokyo.

Additionally, the city of Lappeenranta, Vainio's hometown, is considering awarding her a monetary prize for her achievement. The city council will discuss the matter, with options including a financial reward potentially in the tens of thousands of euros or other forms of recognition, such as a land plot. Vainio is expected to return to training soon, with participation in the Valencia Marathon on December 6 already confirmed.

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This will increase Alisa's value in all respects.