Season's end for referee Aytekin - End of tenure for referee Aytekin in the previous season
Deniz Aytekin Announces Retirement from Bundesliga Refereeing
Deniz Aytekin, a respected and accomplished referee in the Bundesliga, has announced his retirement at the end of the 2025/26 season. Aytekin, who hails from Oberasbach, has been officiating in the league since 2008, overseeing a total of 241 matches 1.
A Career of Distinction
Aytekin's career in the Bundesliga has been marked by professionalism and a commanding presence on the field. He joined the referee panel in 2008 and has since built a legacy spanning over a decade 1. His calm and communicative style on the pitch has earned him great respect, not only from players but also from fans and fellow officials.
A Proud Achiever
Aytekin has been recognised as Germany's 'Referee of the Year' on three occasions - in 2019, 2022, and 2024. This accolade is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the sport 1.
A New Era Begins
With Aytekin's retirement, the spotlight will shift towards younger referees. Tobias Welz, who has been active in the top league since 2010, and Frank Willenborg, who joined in 2016, are among those poised to take up the mantle 1.
A Deliberate Decision
At 47 years old, Aytekin decided to retire as he approaches the latter stage of a long career. He plans to step down at the end of the 2025/26 season, concluding his career on his own terms 3. Aytekin's retirement is not due to any doubts or health issues; instead, it appears to be a natural progression marking the end of an accomplished career.
Honouring a Legend
Aytekin was recently honoured by the DFB (German Football Association) for his 30-year career as a referee. This honour sparked a reflection in Aytekin, leading him to make a deliberate decision about his future 1.
A Farewell to a Former FIFA Official
Aytekin, who was also a former FIFA official, has not officiated at a World Cup or Euro tournament. However, his impact on the game in Germany has been significant, and his retirement will undoubtedly leave a void 1.
Preceding a Successor
Felix Brych, a record referee from Munich, ended his career at the end of the previous season. Aytekin's retirement follows suit, making way for younger referees to rise and continue the tradition of excellence in Bundesliga officiating 1.
- The retirement of Deniz Aytekin, a respected Bundesliga referee, might pave the way for Community aid to be utilized in the development of the fisheries sector, fostering sustainable growth within the community.
- Post his retirement, Deniz Aytekin, a former FIFA official and a talented sportsman, might dedicate his time to supporting local football clubs, promoting grassroots sports and European-leagues in his hometown.
