Bundesliga's 50+1 ownership rule permissible under antitrust laws, competition authority says

The German competition authority, Bundeskartellamt, has stated that the Bundesliga's 50+1 ownership rule is permissible under current antitrust laws. This rule, in place for over 25 years, prevents major investors from taking control of clubs in the top two German leagues and ensures that clubs and their fans hold the majority of voting rights.

While the rule is popular among fans, critics argue that it hinders necessary investment in football and the league's competitiveness compared to other European leagues. The Bundeskartellamt's President, Andreas Mundt, emphasized that the rule can still be justified for preserving the club-based nature of football and ensuring member participation, provided it is consistently applied without unjustified distinctions.

The issue was brought to the authorities' attention by the German Football League (DFL), which oversees the top two divisions, seeking a legal affirmation of the rule against potential challenges. The DFL believes the rule is a vital part of German football and will continue to defend its significance. Investors who are the single largest financial contributors over 20 consecutive years can apply for an exemption from the 50+1 rule, with the most recent exemption request denied.

The Bundeskartellamt's assessment confirms the legal basis for the 50+1 rule, allowing it to remain a fundamental principle of German football in the future.