The managing directors of the German Football League (DFL), Steffen Merkel and Marc Lenz, have addressed the ongoing discussion surrounding the 50+1 rule in German professional football. In an interview with "Kicker," they emphasized that the Bundesliga should not rely on external investors to cover deficits from operational business.
Marc Lenz stated, "European football is on a financial wrong path, as high squad costs in many leagues are not financed by revenues and must be covered by investors or debt." He pointed out that the money invested in other leagues is often not used wisely, which is advantageous for the Bundesliga.
The DFL leadership views the 50+1 rule as an important component of German football, as it ensures a majority vote for the members. Lenz and Merkel stressed that the Bundesliga wants to pursue a different, healthier path to secure long-term competitiveness.
However, the DFL leadership also calls for capital for investments in youth development and infrastructure to ensure future competitiveness. Merkel and Lenz agree that it is not just about short-term transfers, but about a sustainable perspective for German football.
