German third‑division clubs push for permanent Regionalliga reform

After a stalled attempt to restructure Germany's regional leagues, the 20 clubs of the 3. Liga issued a joint statement calling for a unified, durable promotion system. They remind the German Football Association (DFB) that the clubs accepted a fourth relegation spot in 2018, incurring sporting and financial costs, on the promise that the Regionalliga would be reformed in return. The clubs demand that the two remaining proposals – the "Kompass" model and the "Regionen" model – be decided by a democratic vote and promptly implemented.

The earlier reform effort failed in June when the five regional league carriers could not agree on a single model; three regions supported the Kompass model, while the southwest and Bavaria voted differently, preventing the changes for the 2028/29 season. The clubs underscore the 3. Liga's growth into one of Europe’s strongest professional leagues, citing its sporting quality, economic development and appeal to fans, media and sponsors. The reform process is set to continue in the coming months, though a final resolution remains uncertain.