Bayern, Wolfsburg oppose Frauen-Bundesliga playoffs

Germany's biggest clubs push back

Bayern München and VfL Wolfsburg have come out firmly against proposals to introduce a playoff system in the Frauen-Bundesliga, with both clubs warning the move could damage the competition's integrity and pile further pressure on already overstretched players.

Regular season at risk of being devalued

Bianca Rech, who heads Bayern's women's football operations, argued that a playoff format would strip value from the regular season. VfL Wolfsburg managing director Dieter Hecking backed that view, insisting the league should explore creative ways to boost TV income without undermining the core competition.

TV rights driving the debate

League officials are weighing up playoffs - and a relegation playoff - as tools to attract higher broadcast bids. Current deals bring in 5.2 million euros per year across 14 clubs from the 2024/25 season, with the next cycle covering just two seasons rather than four. A decision is expected at the clubs' meeting on 30 November.

Player welfare in the spotlight

Both Rech and Hecking flagged the toll on players, noting that playoffs would fall during an already gruelling stretch for top internationals. Rech pointed out that leading leagues elsewhere have rejected the format for precisely this reason.

Champions League factor

Rech also stressed that the success of Germany's elite clubs in European competition helps secure additional Champions League places - a benefit that filters down to every team in the division.