Media: DFB boss Neuendorf against expansion of the 3rd division

DFB President Bernd Neuendorf has ruled out an increase in the 3rd Football League with 22 teams and five promoted and five relegated teams, according to a media report. For the 63-year-old, this reform would result in economic disadvantages for the third-division clubs and an almost impossible-to-implement schedule, as reported by "Sport im Osten" from Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk (MDR). The top official of the German Football Association reportedly left open the possibility of reducing the current five regional league divisions.

Currently, only the regional league champions of the south-west and west divisions are promoted directly to the 3rd division, as well as one title holder from the Bavarian, north and north-east associations on a rotation basis. The other two champions will play out the fourth promoted team in a first and second leg.

Open letter displeases Neuendorf

In an open letter, 17 clubs from the Regionalliga Nordost contacted Neuendorf to suggest a promotion reform. The president complained that he would have liked more confidentiality in the matter. At the same time, he referred further proposals for solutions to the respective regional associations. The DFB could then sit at the table as a mediator if desired.

"The clubs will continue to fight for their interests and fight for recognition - even if the DFB is unfortunately not prepared to make this important issue a top priority," said Tommy Haeder, manager of the regional league club Chemnitzer FC. The clubs will now "resolutely prepare for the NOFV promotion reform summit at the end of March". The talks will focus on reducing the regional leagues to four seasons.

Meuselwitz withdraws from the initiative

ZFC Meuselwitz has withdrawn from the group of supporters as a result of Neuendorf's veto. The Thuringians fear that a four-tier solution would result in the Regionalliga Nordost being broken up, which they do not want. Meuselwitz would again be willing to talk about a possible expansion of the seasons.