Overview
- The DFB circulated the Kompass‑Modell to regional and state presidents on Thursday, proposing four 20‑team divisions from 2028/29 with yearly AI‑guided geographic assignment and the DFB as league operator.
- The proposal ties concrete payments to the change, promising 500,000 euros per year to each regional association and 40,000 euros per club per season for an initial four years while excluding professional reserve teams.
- A statutes change is needed to implement the plan and the DFB has set an extraordinary Bundestag vote for December 18 where a two‑thirds majority is required to pass the reform.
- Political dynamics have shifted after the Süddeutscher Verband leadership change and vocal opposition from Bavaria and parts of the south and southwest, leaving the required majority uncertain and prompting negotiators to offer mitigations.
- Negotiations are focusing on practical protections — a proposed Hessen paragraph to limit disruptive reassignment, special funds for clubs forced to switch divisions, and a right to reapply — and the DFB will present the plan publicly on Monday before a Presidium decision.