Hans-Joachim Watzke Named Borussia Dortmund President

Borussia Dortmund Welcomes Hans-Joachim Watzke as New President

Borussia Dortmund president Hans-Joachim Watzke has officially taken the helm of the Bundesliga club, marking a pivotal transition in the club’s leadership. After more than two decades as chief executive, Watzke was chosen to succeed Dr. Reinhold Lunow during a historic annual general meeting, earning 59 percent of the votes. This election solidifies his status as a key figure within the club and signals the beginning of a new era for Borussia Dortmund.

Watzke Secures Presidency Following Record-Long General Meeting

The election process for Borussia Dortmund president was both memorable and challenging. Watzke, the only candidate for the top post, became the 19th president in the club’s history after a hybrid voting process that engaged members both in person and online. Out of a total of 238,109 members, 1,951 participated at the Westfalenhalle, while 4,128 cast their votes digitally. The meeting, which extended over 13 hours due to technical difficulties with the club’s first-time use of electronic voting, concluded just after midnight.

Daniel Lorcher was elected as vice-president with 71% of the vote, and Silke Seidel, the previous vice president, was named treasurer with 61%. The entire leadership team will serve a three-year term, providing continuity and strategic stability to Borussia Dortmund.

Hans-Joachim Watzke’s Farewell as CEO and Vision as Borussia Dortmund President

Before his confirmation as Borussia Dortmund president, Watzke delivered an emotional farewell as CEO, reflecting on a tenure marked by both triumph and adversity. He recalled navigating the club through near-bankruptcy in 2005, the traumatic team bus attack in 2017, and the unprecedented challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his stewardship, Borussia Dortmund secured five major titles and regularly competed at the highest levels of German and European football.

Watzke presented robust financial results for the 2024-25 season, highlighting €526 million in consolidated revenue, €115.8 million in operating profit, and €326 million in equity. He emphasized that the club maintained this stability without incurring debt for sporting achievements—an approach he described as “exceptional.”

Addressing off-field issues, Watzke expressed deep sympathy for victims in an abuse scandal involving a former employee from the 1990s. He vowed a transparent investigation, stating, “If there were any oversights – and there apparently were – then we will rectify them.”

Borussia Dortmund President Watzke Outlines Ambitious Plans

Watzke set a conciliatory and forward-looking tone in his first address as Borussia Dortmund president. He pledged to foster open dialogue and represent all supporters, noting, “I want to be a president for all Borussia fans.” Among his first initiatives, Watzke aims to establish a balanced committee to modernize the club’s statutes and governance. He also committed to further professionalization and greater gender diversity in leadership.

Concerns over potential stadium bans were addressed, with Watzke promising to collaborate closely with the club’s fan department to ensure fair and reasonable measures. Several motions, including revisions to the club’s statutes and steps to strengthen internal democracy, were adopted during the meeting.

Outgoing president Dr. Reinhold Lunow received a warm ovation, underscoring the spirit of unity at the club. Both Lunow and Watzke exchanged heartfelt thanks, marking a respectful leadership transition.

Future Prospects for Borussia Dortmund Under Watzke

The appointment of Hans-Joachim Watzke as Borussia Dortmund president marks a continuation of strong, experienced leadership at a crucial moment. Watzke will now guide the club’s strategic direction and represent Borussia Dortmund in major football organizations such as the DFL, DFB, and UEFA. Meanwhile, the club’s ongoing transparent investigation into historical abuse allegations demonstrates its commitment to integrity and responsibility.

On the field, Borussia Dortmund looks to build on its domestic and European ambitions under Watzke’s stewardship. Fans can expect continued focus on Bundesliga and Champions League campaigns, with upcoming fixtures and transfer strategies drawing particular interest. For more updates on Borussia Dortmund and the world of football, visit for more news.

Opinion: Watzke’s Legacy and the Road Ahead

Hans-Joachim Watzke’s deep-rooted commitment to Borussia Dortmund has already proven invaluable in steering the club through financial crises and sporting success. His election as president ensures continuity and stability, but also brings fresh opportunities for modernization and inclusive leadership. If Watzke can deliver on his promises of transparency, dialogue, and progress, he may well guide Borussia Dortmund into a dynamic and prosperous new chapter—both on and off the pitch.