League Reform Proposals Ignite Aufstiegsfrage in Northeast Germany
Introduction:
The battle for promotion from the Regionalliga to the 3. Fußball-Liga has taken a new turn, with 17 out of 18 clubs in the northeast region putting forward three proposals for reforming the current Aufstiegsregelung (promotion regulation). United under the slogan "Aufstiegsreform 2025 – #meistermüssenaufsteigen#", these clubs aim to provide the Northeast German Football Association (NOFV) with actionable suggestions to be presented at the DFB Bundestag in September.
Background:
The impetus for this push stems from the Aufstiegsregelung implemented by the German Football Association (DFB) in 2017 and modified in 2019. The DFB currently operates five Regionalliga divisions, with only the top teams having a chance at promotion.
Current Promotion System:
The existing promotion system is designed as a transitional solution. It grants direct promotion to the champions of the two most populous divisions, Südwest and West. The other three divisions take turns having one direct promotion slot, leaving two divisions to compete in a relegation playoff.
Proposed Reforms:
The three proposals put forward by the northeast clubs aim to address concerns regarding fairness and sporting merit in the current system.
Proposal 1:
This proposal calls for the elimination of the alternating promotion system, ensuring that all Regionalliga champions have an equal opportunity to earn direct promotion. The top four clubs in the overall standings would qualify for direct promotion, regardless of their division.
Proposal 2:
This proposal introduces a two-tier promotion system. The top two clubs in the overall standings would advance directly to the 3. Fußball-Liga, while the next two teams would face off in a promotion playoff. This format aims to reward the most consistent performers throughout the season.
Proposal 3:
The third proposal combines elements of both proposal 1 and proposal 2. It would guarantee direct promotion to the champions of the two most populous divisions, while the remaining four division champions would participate in a promotion playoff. This approach balances the interests of the larger divisions with the desire for equal opportunities.
Rationale:
The clubs argue that the current Aufstiegsregelung is disadvantaging clubs in smaller divisions and failing to reward true sporting merit. They contend that all Regionalliga champions should have an equal chance to earn promotion, regardless of their divisional affiliation.
Conclusion:
The proposals put forward by the northeast Regionalliga clubs have sparked a renewed debate about the fairness and effectiveness of the current promotion system. The NOFV will now consider the suggestions and decide whether to submit a formal proposal to the DFB Bundestag for a potential revision of the Aufstiegsregelung. The outcome of this process could have significant implications for the future of promotion and relegation in German football.
