“Get promise”
President does without: Watzke wins BVB power struggle
22.08.2025 – 12:40 p.m.Reading time: 2 min.
Actually, Reinhold Lunow wanted to run again – now he decides. The way for Hans-Joachim Watzke as the future BVB president is free.
The impending power struggle for the presidency near Borussia Dortmund is off the table. Incumbent Reinhold Lunow, who initially announced a new candidacy, is now refraining from this. With this, Hans-Joachim Watzke can be elected President at the general meeting in November.
“I will pass on my presidency in November,” said incumbent Lunow on Friday in a personal explanation: “I wish a new BVB Presidium every success in his future way.” In autumn, Watzke is leaving the management in autumn as chairman of the management, and nothing stands in the way of his election at the general meeting in November.
Lunow explained: “Borussia Dortmund must not lose his identity in times of change. This includes the care of our values and tradition and unconditional cohesion in the Borussia family. In order to secure these goals, a new candidacy first appeared to me.”
The 72-year-old continued: “In detailed discussions with Hans-Joachim Watzke, who expressed his interest in the presidential office, I received the promise from him to consider the points mentioned in the event of his election as president. With this commitment, I see my concerns and can hand over the official business with a clear conscience.”
This paves the way for a harmonious general meeting. Watzke can now crown his long official career with the new office. “I follow the request of the committees,” the 66-year-old had explained. “It would be an honor for me if I could continue to support our association in this important office after 20 years of operational activity,” Watzke explained his application to the office.