"Watzke's Official Nomination Incites Potential Power Struggle at BVB"
Borussia Dortmund, one of Germany's most beloved football clubs, is gearing up for an exciting presidential election in November 2025. The current managing director of the club, Hans-Joachim Watzke, has officially announced his candidacy for the prestigious position.
Watzke, who has been at the helm of Borussia Dortmund since 2005, has been a key figure in the club's management and is well-known within the Bundesliga community. His decision to run for president was left open over the summer, but he made his announcement official in a statement on Wednesday.
The candidacy of Watzke is a result of the unexpected candidacy of incumbent Reinhold Lunow, who has been president since 2022. Lunow's decision to seek another term surprised many, as he had earlier stated he would not run again.
However, Lunow's candidacy has led to a months-long election campaign at Borussia Dortmund. In a surprising turn of events, Lunow has recently withdrawn his candidacy, effectively clearing the path for Watzke to become president without a direct electoral showdown.
The BVB's bodies, including the economic council and senior council, have announced their support for Watzke's candidacy. If elected, Watzke plans to step down from his position as managing director before the general meeting in November.
Watzke expressed his desire to continue supporting Borussia Dortmund in the important position of president, if elected. The general meeting for the election of the president is scheduled for November, and the election is expected to continue for several months due to the candidacies of Watzke and Lunow.
In summary, Hans-Joachim Watzke, the long-time CEO of Borussia Dortmund, is poised to become the club’s president in the November 2025 election after Lunow withdrew his candidacy, removing the main opposition to Watzke’s presidency bid. The election for the position of president at Borussia Dortmund is being contested by Hans-Joachim Watzke and incumbent Reinhold Lunow.
Hans-Joachim Watzke, known for his leadership at Borussia Dortmund in the sports sphere, particularly within Europe's prestigious football leagues, expressed his intention to continue supporting the club as president, should he be elected in the upcoming election scheduled for November 2025. The heated presidential race at the club pits Watzke against incumbent Reinhold Lunow, a fellow figurehead in the Bundesliga community.
