DFL consider scrapping summer break

The German Football League (DFL) is considering the possibility of scrapping the summer break, according to managing director Andreas Rettig.

The notion of abolishing the summer hiatus was first discussed in March at a meeting of Bundesliga coaches.

Rettig has now confirmed they are continuing to debate the topic as they look to prepare for a possible winter World Cup in Qatar in 2022.

“We are discussing the subject very openly,” he told Die Welt. “In the end, it also depends on how FIFA finally decided the debate on the relocation of the World Cup in Qatar from summer to winter. Should this happen, it would of course have a great impact on our discussion.”

Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has already backed the idea, insisting it would be wise to take advantage of the better weather conditions in the summer.

“From May to August is when we do not play football in Germany, although in these months we have the best weather,” he said.

“I thought we had better take a break when the weather is bad here. This could be an advantage.

“I can see this model is an opportunity for the Bundesliga.”

Werder Bremen coach Thomas Schaaf also feels the summer weather should be utilised, but believes abolishing the break entirely would not be a wise course of action.

“We should not abolish the summer break, but find a different rhythm,” he said.

“We have the best conditions in the summer. We need to use it better. Therefore a procedure would have to be worked out. “