started · updated
DFB plans Regionalliga reform with direct promotion
The German Football Association (DFB) is proposing a major reform of the Regionalliga structure, aiming to replace the current controversial promotion system. Under the proposed ‘Compass Model’, the leagues would be reorganized into four geographically defined divisions, each consisting of 20 teams to minimize travel distances.
A key component of the reform is the guarantee of direct promotion to the 3. Liga for each of the four regional champions. This would eliminate the current inequality where not all league winners are guaranteed a spot in the third tier. The plan is slated for implementation starting with the 2028/29 season.
To facilitate this transition, the DFB intends to provide financial support to regional associations and clubs. This includes an annual sum of 2.5 million euros distributed among the five regional associations, alongside a central marketing strategy for broadcasting and sponsorship rights. Additionally, clubs could receive an annual subsidy of 40,000 euros for the first four seasons of the new system.
Entities
3. Liga · Bertram Obling · DFB · FC Mertingen · FSV Frankfurt · Frankfurt · German Football Association · Germany · KSV Hessen Kassel · Kickers Offenbach · MTV Lübeck · Nikola Roganovic