Mainz 05 – Board member Jan Lehmann: Investor entry into DFL “can make sense”

Board member Jan Lehmann from FSV Mainz 05 is open to a possible entry of an investor in the German Football League (DFL). “If we want to compete internationally, the Bundesliga will need sustained economic growth,” said the 52-year-old table football: “An investor can make sense if their support enables growth that would not be possible without them.”

In this way, the league could even “retain and strengthen” the 50+1 rule, Lehmann explained: “However, an investor must fit the league in terms of values.” It’s not about putting fresh money into player salaries or consultant commissions. Rather, he hopes for a reduction in the “huge financial inequality” and, as a result, for more tension. Investments are particularly worthwhile for future technologies, infrastructure and digitization.

“The Bundesliga has to make a decision: Do we primarily want to be a top league with international success? Or is it about inspiring local people with a great stadium experience and exciting competition? Or is there a reasonable compromise?” said Lehmann . It is now time to conclude this discussion.

The Spanish La Liga, for example, made a much-discussed billion-dollar deal with an investor from Luxembourg in August 2021.