Why have German Bundesliga clubs split from the DFB?

The clubs have formed an independent association due to disagreements over the development and commercialization of the Women's Bundesliga, feeling the DFB reneged on agreed terms.

What is the DFB's role in German women's soccer?

The DFB, Germany's national soccer federation, currently runs the Women's Bundesliga and had previously committed to investing in the league.

Has German women's soccer been struggling recently?

Yes, no German team has won the Women's Champions League since 2015, with teams from other European nations dominating recently.

Home / Sports / German Women's League Clubs Break From Federation

German Women's League Clubs Break From Federation

5 Dec

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Summary

14 top clubs have formed an independent association for the women's league.
Clubs accuse the DFB of reneging on agreed terms for league development.
No German team has won the Women's Champions League since 2015.

German Women's League Clubs Break From Federation

In a significant move, 14 clubs from Germany's top women's soccer league, the Bundesliga, have decided to establish their own independent association. This decision signals a split from the German Football Federation (DFB), which currently oversees the league, and aims to ensure the "modern, professional and sustainable development" of women's football in the country.

The clubs cited disagreements with the DFB regarding the league's future. According to club officials, the federation appeared to be backtracking on previously negotiated points, creating a stalemate. This has led the clubs to pursue their own path to "avoid wasting any more time" and to significantly invest more themselves.

This internal conflict arises even as Germany prepares to host the 2029 Women's European Championship. The split highlights growing pains in German women's football, which has seen its dominance wane internationally, with no club winning the Women's Champions League since 2015.