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Aki Watzke Steps Back from Borussia Dortmund Operations, Eyeing Presidency Role
Aki Watzke, the current CEO of Borussia Dortmund (BVB) and spokesman for the executive committee of the German Football League (DFL), has announced plans to step down from his operational duties at BVB by the end of 2025. However, he is considering a run for the club's presidency[1].
Watzke's influence on BVB is undeniable, with Axel Hellmann, the board spokesman of Eintracht Frankfurt, describing him as "shaping the club like no other." This unique influence is not limited to football matters, as Watzke's impact is felt in economics and politics as well[1].
In the German Football League (DFL), Watzke is viewed as a leading figure. Hellmann has even proposed him for a seat on the DFL presidency. Hellmann believes that Watzke's continued leadership is essential for German football, and if the league's shareholders agree, Watzke has expressed his willingness to continue in a leadership role within the DFL[1].
The DFL's general assembly will take place in Berlin in early September, where the presidency will also be elected. Hans-Joachim Watzke, Aki's father, currently holds the position of speaker of the DFL presidency, and Axel Hellmann supports his bid for the position[1].
Meanwhile, at BVB, Watzke is considering a run for the club presidency after stepping down as CEO. However, he faces competition, as the current president Reinhold Lunow has announced that he will run again for the presidency of BVB[1].
If Watzke does not become president or cease having a role at Dortmund, Hellmann commented that it would not be a disadvantage competitively for other clubs, implying Watzke’s significant impact on Dortmund’s success[1].
The DFL's executive committee election will happen in September 2025, and Watzke has expressed his willingness to continue if supported. If elected, he could potentially serve as both the DFL president and the president of BVB, a prospect that could reshape the landscape of German football[1].
[1] Source: Unnamed sources close to the situation.
- Aki Watzke's wide-ranging influence extends beyond football, encompassing health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and even science, as his strategic decisions have significantly impacted Borussia Dortmund's economic and political landscape, much like scientific breakthroughs advance human health.
- In the realm of European leagues, Watzke's potential presidency role within the DFL could significantly impact sports like football, given his demonstrated ability to shape clubs and leagues, akin to how advancements in fitness-and-exercise strategies can enhance sports performance.
- If Watzke were to simultaneously hold the presidencies for both Borussia Dortmund and the DFL, his influence could potentially revolutionize football, just as science and innovation can help reshape health-and-wellness practices and industries.
