Wednesday, 28. May 2025 | EHC Red Bull München: Interview with new signing Gabriel Fontaine
Moving to Munich as a champion: Fontaine wants to bring a “winning mentality” to the teamInterview with new signing Gabriel Fontaine// INTERVIEWGabriel Fontaine will be wearing the EHC Red Bull München jersey next season. In his first interview, the 28-year-old Canadian forward talks about his move to Munich, his ambitions, and his activities off the ice.Servus Gabriel, welcome again to the Red Bulls and congratulations on winning the championship with Eisbären Berlin. How does the summer break feel after such a successful season?
Gabriel Fontaine: “You always want to win. When you achieve that goal, the joy is immense. You feel like you've done your job. Then, of course, you can enjoy the summer more.”
How are you spending the off-season?
Fontaine: “I'm in my hometown of Montreal. I'm trying to spend as much time as possible with my family and friends because I don't see them all winter. I'm also invited to two weddings. Otherwise, my days consist of training and golf.”
There are several good golfers on our team. Will your new teammates have some competition?
Fontaine: “We'll see. (laughs) My handicap is currently two or three. Golf is more than just a hobby for me. I'm a little addicted to it.”
Back to ice hockey. You had a strong first PENNY DEL season: 49 points in 56 games, plus the championship with the Eisbären. What made you decide to move to Munich?
Fontaine: “I had a very good conversation with Christian (Winkler, Managing Director Sports Red Bull Ice Hockey). The whole package just fit. I've only heard good things about Munich. My German teammates in Berlin told me how beautiful the city is. I've also been here a few times, for example last season and before that in the Champions League with Lukko Rauma.”
That was in October 2023, when you beat us 4-1 with Rauma. Since you also won both away games with Berlin at the SAP Garden, you are still unbeaten in Munich...
Fontaine: “That's right. I hope it stays that way for a long time, but then with my new teammates. The SAP Garden is a great arena and I'm looking forward to playing there.”
What do you know about your new home?
Fontaine: “I mostly know Munich from away games. I really liked what I saw of Munich. For example, I went to Oktoberfest with the Eisbären last year.”
Back to the private Gabriel. What do you do away from the ice rink and golf course?
Fontaine: “I like to read. Right now, I'm reading a French book about India and the lives of the people there. It's a romance. I also like listening to music. My roommate here in Montreal recently took me to a concert. And he persuaded me to watch the series ”Spectrum Love.“ So, lots of romantic stuff (laughs).”
But your roommate isn't coming with you to Munich? (with a wink)
Fontaine: “No, no (laughs). I'm moving to Munich on my own. No girlfriend, no pets, just full focus on ice hockey.”
What are your goals for next season – personally and with the team?
Fontaine: “I want to repeat my performance from last season. The most important thing is that we are successful as a team. In Berlin, we had a winning mentality. I want to bring that winning mentality here to the Red Bulls.”
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