By Jamie Allen
In order to combat some of the division’s key issues, the DFB have today announced new proposals.
For over a year now, the so-called “Task Force Economic Stability 3. Liga” has been working on measures to help combat some of the issues the league faces. This comes after the DFB called for more economic structure in Germany’s lowest professional division.
At a glance, here are the most important changes.
Equity (value):
As of the 2023/24 season, negative equity will be sanctioned. The equity of the club must increase by at least 5% yearly. In the case of 2. Bundesliga teams coming down, there’s must not worsen the year they step into the division. In the event that clubs equity does go down, point deductions can be put into place immediately.
Stadium Capacity:
From next season, the minimum capacity requirement for the 3. Liga will be lowered from 10,001 to 5,001. Within the stadiums, a minimum of 2,000 seats is required. For grounds of less than 10,000 spectators, at least 1,000 tickets must be made available for away fans. If the stadium capacity is higher, then at least 10% of the total must be made available to travelling fans.
Financial Fair Play:
Clubs that achieve a positive seasonal result (financially) and those who have the best financial planning will be rewarded via payments. However, those with bad outcomes can be sanctioned with fines.
Underfloor heating:
As a requirement, teams must have under pitch heating at their stadiums. Though newly promoted teams are exempted from this in their first year, they must have an alternative ground which either has a heating system or is artificial. If clubs fail to do so, they will receive 25% less revenue from the league’s TV rights deal.
Fans:
All 20 teams from the division must hold an open fan discussion at least three times a season. Additionally, a full-time fan representative must be employed by every team.
Related stories
Source: Bulinews