Germany’s 50 + 1 rule upheld by competition authority | OneFootball

Germany’s federal competition authority said the 50 + 1 rule complies with competition law, adding that it preserves the sport’s club character and ensures member participation.

In place since 1998 across the country’s top two divisions, the rule requires clubs, effectively their members, to retain a majority of voting rights.

It limits the influence of external investors and is widely popular among supporters, though it does not command universal backing.

Compliance proceedings were launched at the request of the German Football League (DFL), which oversees the top two divisions.

The DFL’s aim was to strengthen the rule’s legal footing against any future challenges based on laws guarding the market from excessive corporate power.

Source: L'Équipe

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