Andreas Minschke challenges Matthias Große for DESG presidency

speed skating DESG leadership election Thuringian Ice and Roller Sports Association sports governance dispute Erfurt training center

A leadership struggle has emerged within the German Speed Skating and Short Track Community (DESG). Andreas Minschke, a Thuringian official and president of the Thuringian Bob and Sled Sports Association, has been presented as a candidate to replace the current president, Matthias Große.

The Thuringian Ice and Roller Sports Association (TERV) and the Erfurt Ice Sports Club initiated the motion to replace the existing presidency. The conflict stems from a proposed structural reform that aims to centralize elite athletes in Inzell and Berlin, a move that critics argue would weaken the traditional training base in Erfurt.

In response to the motion, TERV has presented a ‘shadow cabinet’ to lead the organization. This proposed team includes Peter Rüberg as deputy for speed skating, Alexander Altendorf-Schöpke as treasurer, and Christoph Zepernick as vice president for short track. The current DESG presidency has declined calls to resign, stating through legal counsel that they will not step down.

The extraordinary general meeting to decide the future leadership is scheduled to take place in Dresden.