Athletes from Germany's national teams will undergo training in the Weimar area. - National team squads of DFB to undergo training in Weimar
The German Football Association (DFB) has chosen Blankenhain, Thuringia as its new base camp, marking a significant shift in the training locations for various DFB national teams [1]. This decision was made due to the region's premier training facilities and strategic location, ideal for top-level preparation [1].
The partnership, formalized in August 2025, is a comprehensive agreement running through 2031, establishing Thuringia as a key training hub for multiple DFB national teams, including men's and women's senior teams, U21 and U20/U23 teams, and other development squads [1].
Thuringia has demonstrated its capabilities by successfully hosting high-profile training camps, such as the senior men's team preparing for UEFA EURO 2024 and the U21 team preparing for the 2025 European Championships [1]. The region's infrastructure, including facilities in Blankenhain and the Spa & Golf Resort Weimarer Land nearby, provides excellent logistical support and atmosphere for teams' preparations [1].
The change in training location is due to the "World of Sports" campus belonging to adidas, which was previously used, no longer being available to the association from 2027 [2].
The benefits for Thuringia from this partnership include recognition as a premier football training destination within Germany, increased visibility and tourism from national and international football events and trainings, economic and infrastructural development tied to hosting top-level sports teams, strengthened ties with the DFB, enabling direct involvement in national football development, and enhanced local pride and community engagement from hosting elite sports teams and events [1].
The DFB will continue to use the facilities in Herzogenaurach until the end of 2026 [3]. This historic partnership reflects Thuringia’s proven hosting capabilities, excellent facilities, and strategic value to German football, while the region gains long-term economic, sporting, and reputational benefits [1].
[1] DFB partners with Thuringia for new training base - DFB.de [2] DFB moves training base to Thuringia - Spiegel Online [3] DFB extends Herzogenaurach agreement - DFB.de
The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, considering the German Football Association (DFB)'s new focus on soccer training facilities in Thuringia. The region, with its premier training facilities like the ones in Blankenhain and the Spa & Golf Resort Weimarer Land, could potentially provide appropriate workspaces for athletes and staff involved in the football industry.
