DFL marketing model for TV broadcasting rights does not meet competition law requirements

On Wednesday the Bundeskartellamt informed the German Football League (Deutsche Fußball Liga, DFL) of its final evaluation of the proposed model for the central marketing of TV broadcasting rights to the football league (games 2009 – 2015).

Last week the Bundeskartellamt had informed the DFL of the minimum requirements for rendering the marketing concept compatible with competition law. As a consequence, the DFL proposed final amendments to its marketing model on Tuesday. However, even with these amendments, the proposed model did not meet the requirement that consumers receive a fair share of the resulting benefits. Consequently, the marketing model would have to be prohibited by a formal decision if the DFL were to adhere to it.

A more detailed reasoning for the Bundeskartellamt’s position can be found in its press release of 17 July 2008 (For further information, please refer to President Dr. Heitzer`s statement and background paper which can be by e-mail from the press office or which are also available on the website of the Bundeskartellamt).