"Cartoon": Watzke expresses dissatisfaction over the accusations during the BVB election campaign
In a dramatic turn of events, the protracted power struggle for the presidency of Borussia Dortmund has come to an end. The incumbent President Reinhold Lunow and CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke were at the centre of this intense competition, with Watzke deciding to run for the club's top position despite initially stepping back.
Lunow, who has been at the helm since 2022, unexpectedly withdrew his candidacy for a new term on August 22, 2025. This move paved the way for Watzke to run unopposed in the upcoming election.
Watzke, aged 66, announced his candidacy at the club’s general meeting in November 2025, following requests from BVB committees. Despite initial reservations, Watzke decided to throw his hat into the ring, promising to lead the club with dedication and experience.
The exact conditions under which Lunow withdrew his candidacy are not clear. Some supporters had expressed concerns about external influences, such as those from clubs like FC Bayern and figures like Uli Hoeneß. However, specific conditions from Watzke himself for withdrawing have not been reported.
As the dust settles, Borussia Dortmund is preparing for a new era under Watzke's leadership. The election committee is likely to propose Watzke, not the incumbent Lunow, for the presidency. The president will be elected "on the proposal of the election committee" according to the club's statutes.
The financial health of Borussia Dortmund is also a point of interest. The club reported a record turnover of 526 million euros in the 2024/2025 financial year, an increase of 16.9 million euros compared to the previous year. The tax-adjusted profit for the same period was 6.5 million euros, a significant improvement from the previous year's 44.3 million euros, thanks mainly to the sale of Jude Bellingham.
Despite the controversies surrounding his candidacy, Watzke has expressed no regret about entering the power struggle for the presidency at Borussia Dortmund. He looks back at his tenure with a sense of gratitude and relief, ready to face any challenges that come his way.
The election will take place in November at the general meeting. Whether Watzke will face a third, open election if a majority is not achieved after a proposal change remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the future of Borussia Dortmund is in the capable hands of Hans-Joachim Watzke.
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft decision regarding Watzke's candidacy, given his active involvement in sports, particularly football, as the CEO of Borussia Dortmund. Despite initial reservations, Watzke, who will be leading Borussia Dortmund into a new era, has shown his dedication and experience in football management.
