Bundesliga clubs react after Federal Cartel Office classify "50+1 rule" as permissible | OneFootball

The debate over 50+1 continued on Wednesday as the Bundeskartellamt (Federal Cartel Office) finally ruled the rule is permissible under antitrust law. There is also a call for improvement regarding its execution at the clubs granted exceptions and special cases – Bayer Leverkusen, VfL Wolfsburg, RB Leipzig and Hannover 96.

The decision followed with contrasting reactions from Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga clubs as they stay divided on the issue. While clubs like Borussia Dortmund and Schalke 04 welcomed the non-binding statement, some asked for more clarity on the matter.

"It is a significant step that the Federal Cartel Office, in its final assessment, raises no fundamental concerns regarding the (50+1) rule. We’ll continue to advocate for the protection and continued existence of the rule. But a rule only makes sense if it applies equally to everyone. I'm curious about the future and remain skeptical.” said DFL chairman and Borussia Dortmund president Hans-Joachim Watzke.

BVB also issued a public statement in which they noted “50+1 stands for club identity, co-determination and a vibrant fan culture”. “Our stance is clear: 50+1 is part of German soccer, and members and fans belong at the heart of the club.” said spokesperson Carsten Cramer.

Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen’s managing director Fernando Carro also shared his opinion after the homework given to his club with the ruling on Wednesday morning. The club stated that they’re now carefully examining the decision as they see a promising starting point for a long-term solution for the entire German football.

While Bayer AG were exempted from the rule in 1999 for supporting Bayer Leverkusen for over two decades, Volkswagen AG received similar advantage two years later for majority of voting rights at VfL Wolfsburg.

Volkswagen AG pointed out that they reserved the right to take appropriate further steps in light of protecting the interest of its shareholders. Wolfsburg’s statement  recalls the club’s previous contribution to the process before adding their willingness for constructive talks with clubs and stakeholders.

In addition to Leverkusen and Wolfsburg, TSG Hoffenheim were also exempted from the rule in 2015 before Dietmar Hopp returned his shares to the club in 2023. Meanwhile, Hannover and Martin Kind continue to ask questions as they share their surprise on why it took eight years for Bundeskartellamt to reach this decision.

RB Leipzig, a club that remains very closed to new shareholders with only 22 voting members,  assured they’re ready for constructive exchanges with the league after hearing the updates. Meanwhile,  FC Schalke 04 and 1. FC Köln are among other clubs releasing statements in support of the decision by the Federal Cartel Office.