AFVD halts German National Team’s European Championship participation
The American Football Association of Germany (AFVD) has announced the withdrawal of the German men’s national team from the IFAF European Championship cycle spanning 2026 and 2027, citing unresolved financial constraints and a need for internal restructuring.
Financial hurdles force tough choice
A significant funding shortfall directly drove the decision. With nearly €100,000 required for tournament participation and the money not available in the current AFVD budget, the association found itself unable to meet IFAF’s deadline for a financial commitment at the start of January. The AFVD had requested a postponement until the end of February, hoping to address the funding issue at its General Assembly on February 14, 2026. However, IFAF denied the extension, needing to proceed with its tournament planning without further delay.
A period of reflection and rebuilding
The withdrawal follows a disappointing fourth-place finish by Germany in the final tournament of the 2025 European Championship, hosted in Krefeld. This performance, combined with a noted lack of spectator interest at the home games, has prompted a comprehensive internal review. The AFVD is using this forced hiatus to fundamentally reassess the national team’s structure and long-term strategy, moving away from the previous model of simply recruiting the best players regardless of their league.
Shifting focus to the future
Instead of immediate competition, the AFVD will now concentrate its resources and efforts on youth development. The association praised the outstanding work of Head Coach Peter Daletzki’s staff in this area and announced plans to invest in talent through camps and exhibition games over the next two years. The goal is to build a new, strong generation of players who will eventually form the core of a revitalized senior national team. This strategic pivot aims to create a sustainable pipeline of talent, ensuring the national team’s future is built on a solid foundation rather than short-term commitments.
