The history of Bayer Leverkusen began in 1904 when a group of Bayer employees decided to form a football club. This founding was more than just a sporting act; it created an identity that still makes up the heart of Die Werkself today. The club emerged during a time when football was rapidly gaining popularity in Germany, and Leverkusen became one of the first clubs to promote the sport within a corporate structure.

The close connection to Bayer AG not only provided the club with financial support but also fostered a community of fans made up of the company's employees. This support was crucial for the club's early steps, as it established itself in regional leagues. In the first decades, while successes were modest, the passion of the players and fans remained unbroken.

A turning point in the club's history came in the 1970s when Bayer Leverkusen began establishing itself in the Bundesliga. With the introduction of professional structures and the signing of talented players, such as the legendary Timo Hildebrand, Leverkusen followed in the footsteps of the great German clubs. The 1980s were a time of growth and professionalization that laid the groundwork for future successes.

The founding of Bayer Leverkusen was not only an important moment for the club but also represented a significant step in the development of football in Germany. It illustrates the ability to grow from the roots of a community and become a respected institution in German football. The values of teamwork, community, and commitment that were ingrained in the club from the beginning are still the driving force behind the successes of Die Werkself today.

Looking to the future, the bond between Bayer Leverkusen and Bayer AG remains a unique and inspiring story in German football. This story is not only carried by the successes on the pitch but also by the strong community that supports the club and remains loyal to it, no matter how challenging the times may be.