Watzke re-elected by DFL - Chancellor's remarks exude optimism - DFL Chancellor retains leadership as Watzke secures another term with Chancellor's endorsement
In a recent development, Hans-Joachim Watzke has been re-elected as the speaker of the German Football League's (DFL) presidium, securing his position as one of the most influential figures in German football.
The DFL's international TV revenues for the upcoming 2025/2026 season are expected to remain stagnant at around 218 million euros. Despite this, Watzke remains focused on other aspects of the league, such as the 50+1 rule and talent development.
The 50+1 rule, which prevents investors from acquiring a majority of the votes in the capital companies of clubs, is a topic of ongoing discussion. Watzke has expressed his support for the rule, gratefully acknowledging the backing of Friedrich Merz, the Federal Chancellor, who sees himself as "part of the Bundesliga."
The Federal Cartel Office has asked the league association to improve the application of the 50+1 rule, and the DFL and affected clubs have been given an extended deadline of mid-October to submit their statements. The exceptions for VfL Wolfsburg and Bayer Leverkusen regarding the 50+1 rule are currently under review by the Federal Cartel Office.
Merz, a member of the CDU, remains a supporter of the 50+1 rule, citing its importance in preserving club member influence and the unique fan culture in German football. He finds the current 50+1 regulation good and has spoken out in favour of it before Watzke's re-election.
Watzke has also expressed concern about the excesses in the English transfer market and has emphasised the need for better talent promotion in Germany. His goal is to ensure a balanced and sustainable future for German football.
Meanwhile, Fernando Carro, the CEO of Bayer Leverkusen, has been confirmed as a member of the DFL supervisory board, despite being a representative of an exception to the 50+1 rule.
It is worth noting that the Premier League generates significantly more money from TV contracts compared to the DFL, with the Spanish La Liga earning roughly three times as much. However, the German federal government under Friedrich Merz shows strong interest in maintaining the 50+1 rule, as it ensures that the registered club holds at least 50 percent plus one vote of the professional football company, preventing external investors from gaining full control over teams.
As Watzke sets his sights on the presidency of Borussia Dortmund at the member meeting in November, his commitment to the 50+1 rule and talent development in German football remains unwavering. The future of German football under his leadership promises to be an exciting one.
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