With great skepticism, the AG Fankultur of the BVB Fan and Supporters Department has taken note of the recent statements by the German Football League (DFL) and its CEO Donata concerning the plans for an "Innovation Game" between 1. FC Köln and AC Milan.
"We welcome the debate on the lack of attractiveness of the Bundesliga. However, we believe that the proposals presented by the league so far are not suitable for making the Bundesliga more attractive. Rather, it feels like old Berliners are being spruced up with some fresh powdered sugar," said Tobias Westerfellhaus, Board Member of the Fan and Supporters Department. To be specific: Technical gimmicks like so-called innovative TV images - such as body cameras or drone footage - will not make a Bundesliga game between the 9th and 13th place teams on a Sunday at 7:30 PM more attractive to viewers. The Bundesliga must refocus on the excitement and fascination of the national competition as well as the fans in the stadium. Fan culture and fan stands have long distinguished the Bundesliga from other European leagues and made it attractive to viewers both nationally and internationally. Sporting attractiveness is the core that has made football overall and the Bundesliga successful. This sporting attractiveness has been lacking in too many Bundesliga games for several years now, as well as in the overall setup. With a serial champion from Munich, little fluctuation in the Champions League spots, a participant field that can operate in parts outside of economic seriousness, and clubs that are almost relegated by the start of the second half of the season due to vastly differing starting conditions, the Bundesliga and many of its games have become unattractive and irrelevant events. In our view, the increasing digitization of the accompanying offerings and stadium visits will not attract new fans to the Bundesliga and its clubs because they do not solve the real problems and future issues of the Bundesliga. For the members of the BVB Fan and Supporters Department, it is clear: To make football Saturdays an exciting experience again that attracts young and old to the stadiums and in front of the TV sets, the DFL must primarily reduce the financial disparity between the clubs to ensure an exciting and fair competition. The often-cited solidarity and fairness in sports must finally also apply to the distribution of money within the league.
We demand:
- The games of national competitions should be held exclusively in Germany;
- Fair and solidary distribution of TV revenue from Bundesliga marketing;
- Genuine solidarity from top clubs to involve the league in Champions League revenues;
- Consolidation of kick-off times and strengthening of the Bundesliga conference;
- Concepts for engaging young fans and fostering enthusiasm for the stadium experience;
- Ensuring the availability and affordability of tickets for young people;
- Maintaining and expanding standing areas to ensure affordable stadium access and promote fan culture.