German FA extends with president Neuendorf until 2029

The German FA (DFB) on Friday announced a four-year contract extension for president Bernd Neuendorf, whose ambitious agenda includes a potential World Cup bid.

Neuendorf has been in office since 2022 and was elected unopposed until 2029 at a vote at DFB headquarters in Frankfurt.

“We are now entering a new phase –- a phase of shaping the future,” said Neuendorf. 

“Thanks to our joint efforts as an association, we are once again capable of taking action. We want to move forward courageously.”

As part of his four-year term, the 64-year-old is considering a bid for Germany to host either the 2038 or 2042 World Cups. 

Speaking earlier this week, Neuendorf said the DFB would “address this question in the future and see under what conditions such a bid would even be conceivable. 

“It is clear that there are only a few associations in the world that have the infrastructure to handle such a tournament with 48 teams and the associated requirements. We can confidently say that we possess excellent infrastructure.”

During his term, the former journalist has overseen a calmer time in charge of the organisation. 

Prior to taking the role, the DFB had been embroiled in numerous scandals. The three previous presidents — Wolfgang Niersbach, Reinhard Grindel and Fritz Heller — were all forced to resign, while the organisation was struggling financially. 

In March 2024, the DFB agreed a deal with American sportswear company Nike to take over as kit manufacturer from 2027, ending a 70-year partnership with German company Adidas. 

While the decision attracted criticism, Nike’s offer was reportedly double that of Adidas and has allowed the DFB to improve its financial situation.

Germany last hosted the World Cup in 2006.

The DFB’s current focus is on a bid to host the women’s Euros in 2029, with a decision expected in early December.