Regionalliga Nordost Clubs Propose Reforms to Enhance Aufstiegsregelung
Introduction
Seventeen out of eighteen Regionalliga Nordost clubs have united to demand a revision of the current promotion regulations. Under the banner "Aufstiegsreform 2025 – #meistermüssenaufsteigen#," they aim to present the Nordostdeutscher Fußball-Verband (NOFV) with concrete proposals to be forwarded to the DFB Bundestag in September. Only Viktoria Berlin abstained from supporting the initiative.
Background and Current Regulations
Since 2017, five Regionalliga divisions have existed in Germany. The transitional promotion regulations dictate that the champions from the two largest regional associations, Südwest and West, receive automatic promotion. The remaining three associations rotate in providing a direct promotion spot, with the remaining two associations engaging in a relegation playoff.
Proposed Reforms and Objectives
The Nordost clubs demand a "fair solution" that grants all Regionalliga champions direct promotion. They believe that the current system is unjust and prevents deserving teams from advancing to the 3. Liga. The clubs have garnered widespread support from fans and stakeholders, recognizing the need for change.
Measures and Potential Actions
To ensure their voices are heard, the clubs are prepared to consider various measures, including:
- Judicial review of the current regulations
- In-game protests, such as pausing matches for a period of time
- Collaborative efforts with other Regionalliga divisions, like Bayern and Nord
- Negotiations with the NOFV to find mutually acceptable compromises
- Exploration of dissolving the NOFV and allowing the five state associations to represent their teams’ interests
Collaboration and Compromise
The Regionalliga Nordost clubs emphasize their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with the NOFV. They view the association as a service provider and have had preliminary discussions with president Hermann Winkler. They acknowledge the need for compromises and are open to innovative solutions, such as:
- Integrating North Bavarian clubs into the NOFV Regionalliga
- Assigning clubs from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to the Regionalliga Nord based on regional proximity
Conclusion
The Regionalliga Nordost clubs are determined to expedite changes to the Aufstiegsregelung. They believe that the division deserves direct promotion opportunities for its champions, commensurate with its fan base and historical significance. The clubs remain optimistic about reaching an agreement with the NOFV and other stakeholders to ensure a fair and equitable promotion system.
