Surprise decision from BioNTech founders Uğur Şahin and Özlem Türeci
Uğur Şahin and Özlem Türeci, who played a pioneering role in the development of the Covid-19 vaccine, have announced that they will leave BioNTech to establish a new biotechnology venture focused on mRNA technologies.
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BioNTech co-founders Uğur Şahin and Özlem Türeci, who achieved great success during the pandemic and made their names known worldwide, are stepping down from their current roles. The duo is preparing to establish their own biotechnology company to explore new opportunities in mRNA technology.
In a statement released by the company, it was noted that BioNTech will transfer certain rights and mRNA technologies to the new venture, in exchange for which it will receive a minority stake and royalty income.
LEADERSHIP TRANSFORMATION AT BIONTECH
Uğur Şahin stated that this decision is the result of evaluations and searches for different strategies that have been ongoing for more than 18 months. It was emphasized that this transition is a natural step for BioNTech's future leadership and business model.
On the other hand, BioNTech investor Markus Manns commented, "The departure of the company's founders is a jarring development for the company and its shareholders at a critical time. Both were the heart and brain of the business."
BioNTech reported a net loss of 665.3 million euros in 2024. While it was noted that this loss increased compared to 2023, the company expects its revenues to decline further in 2025, particularly due to the drop in Covid-19 vaccine sales. It was recorded that the loss per share expectation for 2025 is above estimates.
It was reported that the departure process for co-founders Uğur Şahin and Özlem Türeci will be completed by the middle of 2026. It is stated that the company will focus on the new restructuring and leadership change in the coming period.