The German soccer league, which runs the Bundesliga, has abandoned plans to sell a stake in media rights revenue to outside investors after months of chaotic fan protests. The league, known as the DFL, announced that its board of directors has decided not to proceed with the contract.
Private equity investor CVC Capital Partners was the only potential buyer, taking a cut of 20 years of broadcast and sponsorship revenue in exchange for an upfront payment.
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Since clubs in the top two men’s divisions voted in December to proceed with talks on investment plans, matches have been disrupted for weeks due to protests by fans throwing objects on the pitch. Fans used remote-controlled cars and planes to stop games, and in some cases installed bicycle locks on goal posts.
“Given the current developments, it appears that it is no longer possible to continue the process successfully,” DFL Executive Committee spokesperson Hans-Joachim Watzke said.
“Even if the majority supports the entrepreneurial need for strategic partnerships, German professional football is in the midst of a significant challenge, and it is clear that this is not only within the league associations between clubs. “In some cases, this has given rise to significant controversy.” Even within clubs, there is a growing debate between professionals, coaches, club officials, governing bodies, member associations and fan communities regarding the management of matches, specific match schedules and, ultimately, the integrity of competitions. increasingly at risk. ”
