Fans of Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt protested against outside investors in German soccer by displaying banners and interrupting games in support of the 50-plus-1 rule. This rule ensures that club members have at least 50% plus one vote in decision-making processes, limiting the influence of external investors. The Dortmund supporters emphasized the importance of this rule for the sport, while the Frankfurt fans criticized Wolfsburg, a club backed by Volkswagen, for not adhering to the rule and being considered an “investor club.”
The protests included throwing small plastic balls onto the field, with Frankfurt fans also displaying a banner with an expletive directed at Wolfsburg. Wolfsburg and Bayer Leverkusen are exceptions to the 50-plus-1 rule due to their historical connections with Volkswagen and Bayer, respectively. Hoffenheim, another exception, saw its backer transfer most voting rights to the club to comply with the rule. RB Leipzig limited membership to a select few associated with Red Bull to navigate the rule.
The German soccer league recently abandoned a plan to sell shares in clubs’ future media rights to outside investors following widespread protests. This decision was celebrated by fans, including those of Union Berlin and Borussia Dortmund. Despite some exceptions, the 50-plus-1 rule remains a contentious issue for supporters and club officials in German soccer, with the fan base playing a critical role in preserving the tradition and identity of the sport.
