Top-tier German soccer teams will play In Queensland under a new deal with one of the strongest European football leagues, the Bundesliga.
State Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said an agreement with the top national European league included training camps and exhibition matches, involving some of the most watched teams in the world.
“The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the DFL Deutsche Fussball Liga marks the start of a strategic partnership aimed at growing football across Queensland, while delivering world-class competitions,” Minister Powell said.
He said the MoU included exploring opportunities for a summer football festival featuring Bundesliga clubs, grassroots programs, coaching clinics, youth development pathways, and a business summit to drive bilateral trade and investment between Queensland and Germany.
“By bringing one of the world’s most iconic football leagues to Queensland, we’re not only growing the game, but we’re creating new opportunities for tourism, trade and community connection across the State.
“We saw recently with the British and Irish Lions tour how much passionate fans will travel for their sport, and we expect a similar economic return. That event likely netted more than $55 million.”
State Sport and Racing Minister Tim Mander said having a Bundesliga presence would strengthen football participation in Queensland.
“The Bundesliga is one of the biggest leagues in the world, boasting worldwide viewership, while producing some of the best footballers,” Minister Mander said.
“This partnership in collaboration with Germany’s topflight football clubs will generate even more interest in football across Queensland”.
Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson said a partnership with the Bundesliga would help Queensland stand out on the global stage in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“The Bundesliga MoU is a strategic win for Queensland, aimed at strengthening our events pipeline, and showcasing Queensland’s capability as host of globally significant experiences,” Mr Davidson said.
“From grassroots football to major festivals, this MoU will help us to explore the kind of unforgettable moments that define our state, especially as we work towards the 2032 Games.”
The Bundesliga currently features more Australian players than any other of Europe’s top five leagues, including Socceroos stars Jackson Irvine, Connor Metcalfe and Kasey Bos.”
