Germany: all DFL structures to be renamed Bundesliga from 2026-27 for a more coherent brand identity

The Deutsche Fußball Liga (DFL) has agreed to align the name of its association, DFL e.V., and its company DFL GmbH (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the former since 01/07/2001) with that of its flagship competition. Both entities will therefore be renamed Bundesliga e.V. and Bundesliga GmbH respectively from the 2026-27 season, announced the German League following its members assembly on 03/03/2026.

"All corresponding names of committees and platforms will be adjusted accordingly. This decision was unanimously made by the clubs of the Bundesliga and 2.Bundesliga," said the DFL, whose executive committee had previously supported the change, as had the supervisory board of DFL GmbH.

The body has cited five motives for this change: a more unified identity, alignment with other European leagues, improved brand perception, clearer positioning with respect to the DFB's area of authority, and standardisation with recently created subsidiaries (such as Bundesliga Media).

"As was the case from 2000 to 2017, the Bundesliga word and picture mark will once again serve as the umbrella brand for the…