Signifies the conclusion of a period: a phase that's drawing to a close.
German Football Association Bids Farewell to Three Veteran Referees
The German Football Association (DFB) is gearing up for significant changes in the refereeing scene, as three of its most influential figures – Deniz Aytekin, Tobias Welz, and Frank Willenborg – have announced their retirements.
Deniz Aytekin, the DFB's Referee of the Year in 2019, 2022, and 2024, is hanging up his whistle after an illustrious career. Tobias Welz, who has been a referee for 35 years, sees the upcoming season as the ideal time for his departure. Frank Willenborg, who has officiated 100 Bundesliga games, is also retiring from his active career.
These departures mark a turning point in the German refereeing elite, with all three referees being among the most influential personalities in the DFB's refereeing scene. Peter Sippel, another referee chief, praises the outstanding commitment of those leaving, while Knut Kircher, referee chief, acknowledges the immense quality left by the retiring referees. The DFB respects their decisions and will honor their contributions.
The loss of these experienced referees will be keenly felt, but the focus is now on a smooth handover to the next generation of referees. The DFB is planning to fill the gaps left by Aytekin, Welz, and Willenborg, but no specific information about their potential successors has been announced yet.
However, the DFB typically identifies and develops younger referees through their training programs and rankings. The decision to promote or select new referees is often based on their performance in lower divisions and their progression through the DFB's referee development system. Some of the younger referees who have been gaining experience in the 2. Bundesliga and 3. Bundesliga could be considered as potential successors.
The end of the 2025/26 season will mark a significant change in the DFB's referee squad, and the selection process for new referees will likely unfold in the coming years based on these evaluations and training programs. Max Burda is one of the candidates being considered for promotion.
In the meantime, the retiring referees are expected to deliver top performances in their final season. Aytekin aims to continue with passion and conclude his career with full commitment. Willenborg is clearing the path for younger referees, ensuring a smooth transition. Despite the changes, the DFB has not announced any changes to the 24-strong referee squad for this year.
As the curtain falls on the careers of Aytekin, Welz, and Willenborg, the German football community reflects on their contributions and looks forward to the emergence of the next generation of referees.
European leagues will undoubtedly miss the expertise of Deniz Aytekin, Tobias Welz, and Frank Willenborg, as they have announced their retirements due to their illustrious careers in football, specifically within the German Football Association (DFB).
The forthcoming season marks a new chapter in the DFB's refereeing scene, with the focus shifting towards the potential successors from their training programs and rankings, like Max Burda, who is being considered for promotion.
