DFL chief Watzke rules out Bundesliga matches abroad

Post by : Monika

Photo: Reuters

Hans-Joachim Watzke, the president of the German Football League (DFL), recently announced a strong decision about the future of Bundesliga football. He made it clear that no Bundesliga matches will be played outside Germany while he is in charge.

Watzke shared this during a press conference after being re-elected as the DFL president. He said, "As long as I am here in the league responsible, there will be no match abroad, when it comes to competitive matches. Full stop." He also mentioned that he will present this position to UEFA, the organization that governs European football.

This announcement is important because it comes at a time when other major European football leagues are experimenting with playing games in foreign countries. For example, Italy’s Serie A held its Supercup in Saudi Arabia earlier this year.

Spain’s LaLiga also approved a match between Barcelona and Villarreal to take place in Miami, USA, in December. Additionally, the Italian football federation has allowed a Serie A game between AC Milan and Como to be played in Perth, Australia, next year. In this context, Watzke’s decision to keep the Bundesliga in Germany stands out as a strong and traditional approach.

Why Watzke is Against Playing Abroad

Watzke’s decision is not just about tradition. It also reflects concerns from supporters’ groups and fans across Europe. Many of these groups feel that moving domestic league matches to other countries focuses too much on money rather than the sport itself.

They argue that playing games abroad can harm the local identity of football clubs and the sense of community built around them. Fans want to see their teams play in their home cities, not in distant countries where few supporters can attend.

Football is more than just a sport; it is a part of local culture. Clubs often represent towns or cities and are deeply connected to the people who live there. Supporters’ groups believe that if matches are moved abroad, it may break this connection. By keeping Bundesliga matches in Germany, Watzke is responding to these concerns. He wants to protect the league’s traditional values and make sure football stays connected to local communities.

Comparison with Other Leagues

The Bundesliga’s decision contrasts with the actions of other major European leagues. Serie A, Italy’s top football league, has experimented with playing matches in foreign countries for financial reasons. This has included holding their Supercup in Saudi Arabia. LaLiga, Spain’s top league, is also planning matches abroad, including a game in Miami between Barcelona and Villarreal. These leagues are exploring international games to reach more fans and increase revenue.

While these moves can bring in money, they have also caused criticism. Some fans and experts believe that taking league games abroad can weaken the connection between clubs and their home supporters. Many people argue that football should prioritize competition, tradition, and community rather than just financial gain. Watzke’s decision to keep Bundesliga matches in Germany ensures that the league avoids this issue.

Fan Reactions and Supporters’ Views

Fans and supporters’ groups have welcomed Watzke’s announcement. Many see it as a commitment to the traditional values of football. They appreciate that the Bundesliga will continue to be played where it belongs: in Germany, in front of local fans. This decision also reassures supporters who worry that international matches could turn football into a business-driven spectacle rather than a sport for communities.

Fans believe that attending matches in their home cities is part of the football experience. It is not only about watching the game but also about connecting with other supporters, celebrating local culture, and showing pride in their clubs. Moving games abroad could make it impossible for most local fans to attend. Watzke’s policy protects this important aspect of football.

Importance of Community in Football

Football clubs are more than just teams that play games. They are community institutions. Local people often feel proud of their club’s achievements and consider the team a part of their identity. Clubs also play a role in social activities, youth development, and community events. By keeping Bundesliga matches in Germany, Watzke ensures that clubs continue to serve their local communities and maintain their strong connection with fans.

Playing matches abroad might generate short-term financial gains, but it could also reduce the league’s authenticity. Many fans worry that moving games overseas could make football less about competition and more about business. Watzke’s decision prevents this from happening, keeping the Bundesliga rooted in its home country and maintaining its cultural and community values.

Watzke’s Leadership and UEFA

Hans-Joachim Watzke has been a strong leader in German football for years. His re-election as DFL president shows that many people trust his decisions. By presenting his position to UEFA, Watzke also emphasizes that he wants to influence European football policy. He wants to show that keeping league matches in their home country is important for the sport’s integrity and long-term sustainability.

UEFA is responsible for organizing European football competitions and setting rules for leagues across the continent. Watzke’s stance could inspire other leagues to reconsider their plans for international matches. His leadership highlights the balance between commercial interests and preserving football’s traditional values.

Financial Considerations vs Tradition

Some people argue that playing matches abroad can bring in large revenues from sponsorships, television rights, and new international fans. While this is true, Watzke believes that football should not compromise its integrity for money. By refusing to take Bundesliga matches abroad, he prioritizes tradition, community, and competition over commercial interests.

This approach ensures that the Bundesliga remains a league where local fans feel included and engaged. The atmosphere in stadiums, the connection between players and supporters, and the cultural significance of matches are all preserved. Watzke’s decision reflects a belief that football is about more than money; it is about community, culture, and the love of the game.

Potential Influence on Other Leagues

Watzke’s stance might influence other European leagues. If fans in Italy, Spain, and other countries see that the Bundesliga maintains strong local support by keeping games at home, they might pressure their leagues to reconsider playing abroad. This could lead to a shift in European football, where tradition and community are valued alongside financial growth.

By setting this example, Watzke positions the Bundesliga as a league that respects its fans and community. Other leagues that focus mainly on international expansion might face criticism from supporters who value authenticity and local identity.

Hans-Joachim Watzke’s decision to keep Bundesliga matches in Germany is a clear message that football’s cultural and community aspects are just as important as commercial interests. By refusing to hold matches abroad, he preserves the league’s authenticity, supports local communities, and respects the wishes of fans and supporters’ groups.

In contrast to other European leagues experimenting with international matches for financial reasons, the Bundesliga remains grounded in its traditions. This decision ensures that fans can continue to enjoy football in their home cities an

European football