Soccer enthusiast and World Cup champion Lukas Podolski, hailing from North Rhine-Westphalia, gets why gungho German football fans are up in arms over the German Football League's (DFL) investor deal situation. "I've got history rooted in the soccer scene, in the south stand of the legendary FC Köln stadium – I've always sided with the fans, and their importance has always resonated with me," he shared on Sport1's "Doppelpass" show. Podolski acknowledged the DFL fan-led protests against their recent investor deal as tennis balls and posters adding flair to Bundesliga matchdays, promising a return to regular play on matchday 25.
Unfazed by the fan-led protests, Podolski believes in the enduring passion of German soccer fans, assuring without a second thought that "they'll stand by their clubs and go to the stadium."
Fan Fervor in Germany - A Deeper Look
The DFL, home to beloved football league teams, currently grapples with criticism stemming from the investor deal, led mainly by Fortuna Düsseldorf 2. Bundesliga supporters. The proposition of private equity firms, including Blackstone, Advent, and CVC, investing 2 billion euros in the Bundesliga in exchange for 12.5% of the broadcasting and sponsorship income over 2 decades, while offering financial boosts, has sparked protests among fans.
Fan concerns revolve around the prospect of external investors, whose main priority is to maximize profits, possibly negatively impacting common fans' interests. Critics worry such investments could transform the game, potentially altering traditional German football experiences, including match scheduling at unconventional hours for international audiences.
The investor deal, if approved, required a two-thirds majority from all 36 Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga clubs. However, the deal was dismissed - 24 clubs gave their votes in favor, 11 voted against, and 5 abstained.
Podolski, who is engaged with the Baller League, a fresh indoor football event in Berlin, aligns with the vision of fans valuing traditional football values and the authentic German soccer culture. Participating in the Baller League, composed of star footballers and social media influencers, illustrates a dedication to alternative football formats that prioritize community spirit and innovation.
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