Proposal by the ‘Future Scenarios Working Group’: DFL governing bodies approve next steps

9 February 2023 – At a joint meeting held today, the Executive Committee of DFL e.V. and the Supervisory Board of DFL GmbH came out in favour of taking the next steps on the basis of the concept presented by the ‘Future Scenarios Working Group’ for the further development of German professional football and a possible strategic partnership at league level.

The league’s governing bodies unanimously decided to approach the further preparation of a tendering process for a strategic partnership on the basis of the proposal presented, in line with the guiding principles defined by the working group and taking into account initial suggestions by members of the governing bodies. At the same time, the management of the DFL, the members of the governing bodies and the working group will engage in an intensive dialogue with the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 clubs.

The basis for today’s resolution included details on the fundamental need to further develop the DFL’s business model, objectives, governance and key financing information, as well as a transaction structure for a potential strategic partnership. Questions concerning the distribution of potential additional capital were not discussed. All of the members of the governing bodies believe that dialogue with the clubs is an essential first step in ensuring that the opinions and suggestions of all of the members of DFL e.V. on all questions relating to the partnership are taken into account.

The concept was based on the premise defined by the working group that investment in sustainable growth is required in order to enable the league and clubs to develop further while preserving the 50+1 rule. At the same time, it is necessary to push for stricter regulations in the international football market. As a result, the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 should remain top leagues characterised by exciting sporting competition that are firmly anchored in society.

For example, the key guiding principles include the fact that any potential partnership will not involve selling shares in the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 but rather a time-limited minority interest in licensing revenue from the sale of Bundesliga rights. Sovereign rights and functions of the DFL, as well as the influence and rights of participation of the clubs, will be fully maintained at all times.