Roger Hampel
Source: AlteFoersterei
In an exclusive address to members of Union Berlin, President Dirk Zingler provided a detailed statement regarding recent debates within German football, particularly the discussions about the potential entrance of investors into the Deutsche Fußball Liga (DFL). Mr. Zingler clarified the situation, highlighting the importance of investment for the continued growth and competitiveness of clubs within the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga.
"Many clubs in the DFL see a significant need for investment in the coming years to strengthen both their own competitiveness and the solidarity of the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga," Zingler explained.
In his letter, Zingler shed light on the organized and rational process overseen by the DFL's management on behalf of all 36 clubs, assessing potential strategies to increase the revenues from the joint marketing of media rights with the help of strategic partners. The model envisages the formation of a DFL subsidiary, where a partner would receive a temporary 12.5% share in the revenues on a licensing model.
The Union Berlin president further discussed the "red lines" - non-negotiable parameters set to protect the clubs from any unwarranted interference by potential investors, ensuring that all sovereign rights remained with the DFL and consequently, with the clubs. In clear terms, this meant protection against meddling with scheduling or having undue influence over the stadium experience on match days.
In the assembly, Zingler clarified that they voted not on a contract conclusion, but whether to authorize the DFL leadership to continue the process and negotiate a draft agreement with interested parties. As part of Union Berlin's management board, Zingler confirmed their vote in favor of continuing the process.
He did, however, insist that any eventual agreement would need to align with their values and vision for football: "The agreement to a draft contract... would only have occurred if the contract conditions had corresponded to our values and our ideas of football," Zingler stated.
Importantly, Zingler pointed out that even clubs that voted against the continuation of the process also expressed the desire for increased funding. He expressed concern over alternative revenue-boosting proposals such as incurring debt, selling league naming rights, or further fragmenting the matchday schedule - actions that crossed Union Berlin's "red lines."
Zingler reaffirmed Union Berlin's unwavering commitment to their values, their unique approach to football, their support for the joint marketing of the clubs' media rights in the DFL, and the preservation of the 50+1 rule.
"I want to re-emphasize at this point that we will continue the path that has led us into the Bundesliga and now for the third time in a row into a European competition... Investment funds will support us on our path 'Football for People'. Therefore, a yes to investors is not automatically a no to 'Football for People'. Our club is the best proof that it depends on the right use of resources," Zingler confidently declared.
Ultimately, the letter from the Union Berlin president underlines a staunch commitment to the club's values and football ideals, stating clearly that the bedrock for these remains a strong and independent 1. FC Union Berlin e.V.
Concluding the statement, Zingler signed off with the club's motto: "With Iron Greetings, Dirk Zingler, President."
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