Werner Brombach, a true supporter and devoted fan of the sport of Triathlon

Werner Brombach (* 29. December 1939 in Erding; † 8. August 2026 in Erding), visionary brewer and one of triathlon’s most devoted supporters, has died aged 86 following a short illness. He passed away on Saturday surrounded by his family.

Werner Brombach, the second-generation owner of ERDINGER Weißbräu and a devoted, influential supporter of triathlon, died on 8 August 2026 at the age of 86. Picture: Erdinger

According to a tribute published by ERDINGER, the second-generation owner of the privately held ERDINGER Weißbräu brewery, founded in 1886, Brombach transformed ERDINGER Weißbier and his hometown of Erding into names recognised around the world. Known as the “Bräu von Erding,” he became one of Germany’s most influential brewery owners. He is survived by his daughter Claudia and son-in-law Alexander.

Walter Berizzi, deputy chairman of the Werner Brombach Family Foundation’s board of trustees, said: “His strong ties to his home, down-to-earth nature, pioneering spirit and entrepreneurial foresight defined Werner Brombach. The ERDINGER family, the entire industry, Bavaria and the world of sport have lost a great entrepreneur, dependable leader, generous supporter and thoroughly principled man.”

Brombach’s legacy extends far beyond brewing. Since 2001, his focus and genuine love of triathlon helped make ERDINGER Alkoholfrei a steadfast partner of professional and amateur athletes. His commitment enabled many triathletes to pursue professional careers and earned him triathlon magazine’s Lifetime Award in 2018.

He was far more than a sponsor. Brombach stood beside the athletes, sharing their ambitions, setbacks and triumphs—including at the IRONMAN World Championship in Hawaii, many other IRONMAN events around the world and at Challenge Roth where he joined many athletes at the finish line.

“Triathlon has lost a loyal champion and a true member of its family. Rest in peace, Werner.” — Kai Baumgartner