VDV President Carsten Ramelow has launched a blistering attack on FIFA and the German Football Association (DFB), condemning what he describes as an overloaded match schedule and calling for urgent reform of transfer regulations. Speaking at the VDV players’ assembly in Gelsenkirchen on Monday evening, the former Germany international warned that professional footballers are increasingly at risk of burnout.
Ramelow argued that FIFA’s congested calendar is pushing top players to the brink, saying it “leads to an overload of star players and causes a cannibalization of competitions.” The 52-year-old stressed that football does not need “gigantism” and must return to a healthier balance. To that end, the VDV has filed a cartel law complaint against FIFA with the European Commission.
Ramelow also urged the DFB to overhaul national transfer rules to improve players’ rights. He demanded a comprehensive reform of the Regionalliga (regional leagues), insisting that every champion should be guaranteed direct promotion. Additionally, he called for better protection of players against salary defaults.
During the event, Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Alexander Meyer and Nuremberg striker Adriano Grimaldi were appointed to the VDV players’ council, while coach Peter Neururer was honored for his contributions.
