Union Berlin's President Speaks Out on Investors in Soccer
President Dirk Zingler of Union Berlin isn't against investors in German soccer, as long as the deal meetings their standards. In an interview, Zingler expressed that because Union Berlin themselves have invested in all their divisions with outside capital for over 20 years, they are not ideologically opposed to investing in soccer. However, he also made it clear that he is against investors seeking returns at all costs, multi-club ownership, and those who aim to change soccer's nature.
Union Berlin did not approve of the type of investor deal that the German Football League (DFL) was considering in mid-December. Zingler explained that they did not think it was beneficial for the league as they were making a decision that would impact the league for 20 years. When asked about the criticism against the DFL, Zingler acknowledged that the term "fucking DFL" was being used in protests but clarified that the decision was ultimately made by the clubs, not DFL's top management.
The controversial investor deal involved an external partner paying €1 billion for a share of the TV revenue, with the intention of strengthening international marketing and further developing the DFL business model. The agreement was set to have a maximum term of 20 years and would be signed by the start of the 2024/25 season.
Union Berlin's stance on investors and the investor deal has drawn attention, with the club being celebrated as a model of courageous investment among fans and soccer enthusiasts. Despite being generally open to investors, Zingler's criticism of the DFL and investor deals highlights the ongoing concerns and debates about the role of investors in German soccer.
Further Exploration
- Learn more about the history of Union Berlin's investment strategies and their commitment to outside capital
- Consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of investor deals for soccer clubs, including financial control, ownership structure, values, and fan engagement
- Examine the long-term impact of investor deals on soccer's culture and the fans' connection to their favorite clubs.
