BERLIN, June 12 -- Bundesliga has encouraged other European leagues to follow the example of games behind closed doors based on strict hygiene regulations, according to the CEO of Bundesliga international.
"It gave people as well as other leagues good hope. Other leagues will be starting soon, and it is good to see more football back for all fans," Robert Klein told Xinhua in a recent interview.
The 50-year-old called the implemented safety measures robust. "We have gone five matchdays in a row, and have been able to deliver the Bundesliga to fans all over the world," the official stated.
Despite considering all possible details, other leagues were eager to see whether the concept is working. "The entire world had its eyes on the Bundesliga."
The statement was published in German and English on the association's official web page to give other leagues an idea.
While being under the football community's surveillance, the league association said German club-football has benefitted from being the only league to develop and run a suitable system.
"We were the only league available at that time for fans and media. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, but we felt a big responsibility on our shoulders," Klein emphasized.
"And fans spoke about the Bundesliga from the South American continent until down to South Africa, Asia, and Australia."
The association kept close contact with Chinese partners to receive input to finish the concept. Klein called it essential to discuss the TV-partner's demands and ensure "they get what they wanted to report about the games."
From Klein's perspective, it looks like Bundesliga & Bundesliga 2 will be able to finish the 2019/2020 season orderly.
To count on regular testing has turned out to be a key factor next to the strict quarantine of the entire club's staff in advance of the games.
Klein praised international solidarity and the efforts that have been made in Germany to secure the economic health of all clubs.
Several sides announced to possibly face insolvency in case the current season has to come to an early end.
The dependency of the clubs on TV money and the turbulence due to the COVID-19 crisis is no surprise as the pandemic "has certain impacts on all industries around the world."
German football was prepared to count on its reliable and robust financial system. "You have seen that the four Champions League participants, distributed 20 million euros to help other clubs," the Bundesliga International CEO said. The DFL was able to respond quickly to keep things in place.
Relying on that solidarity and positive thinking, all clubs will assumedly get over the harmful effects of the crisis, Klein commented.
The CEO for international affairs said players of the Bundesliga opposing racism could count on unlimited support by all clubs, the federation and the league association.
"Racism has no place in the society and also no place in football," Klein commented.
He referred to the latest statements of federation president Fritz Keller. The Deutsche Fussball Bund issued a statement saying there will be no action against any symbols of solidarity, and this is the line future decisions will be made.
