All you need to know about the new U21 competition for Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2
The DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga (DFL) recently announced the formation of an additional Under-21 competition for Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 clubs starting from the 2026/27 season - but what exactly is it? Get the lowdown on the exciting new competition below...
Why an additional U21 competition?
A comprehensive data-driven analysis has revealed that the transition from youth to senior football represents a significant systemic bottleneck in German talent development. The existing league structure, which serves as a pathway to the Bundesliga, is insufficient for most players; a structured intermediate step is lacking.
Furthermore, due to the structure of the German league system (the number of teams and matches, as well as the scheduling of professional and reserve-team fixtures in parallel), talented players in the top four leagues receive significantly less playing time than in England, Italy and Spain, at precisely the age when playing time at a high level is the most important factor in their development.
What is the specific aim of the competition?
The aim of the new competition is to provide additional high-quality playing time at a competitive level for top young players in the transition phase, as well as to extend their developmental period.
Who else, apart from the expert panel, was involved in the discussions and the drafting of the competition concept?
The concept was closely coordinated with the members of the DFL Football and Training Centres committees. In addition, all clubs were briefed at an information session before the DFL Executive Committee unanimously decided to apply to the DFL General Assembly for the rules of the U21 competition to be adopted.
Is the U21 competition intended to replace existing structures?
No, the competition is an additional offering that complements the existing league structure. The reserve teams will not be removed from the current league system. Furthermore, there are no links to the Regionalliga reform currently under discussion at DFB level.
Which clubs are eligible to take part?
All Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 clubs.
Is participation mandatory?
No, participation in the competition is optional. Each club decides for itself, taking into account its own circumstances, whether to take up the opportunity to participate. For example, for clubs that qualify for the UEFA Youth League, participation may be difficult to realise for organisational reasons and in terms of managing the players’ workload - at least in the early part of the U21 season.
Is it necessary to form an additional team in order to take part in the competition?
No, there is no need to set up an additional team. The competition is designed for existing players in the transition phase. Data analysis shows that at 85 per cent of all clubs, at least 18 U22 players play fewer than 450 minutes over the course of the season. According to the standard definition, a transition to the professional ranks is considered successful once this threshold – equivalent to five full matches – is reached.
Which age groups are eligible to play?
The squad will primarily consist of players from the U17 to U21 age groups. In addition, there will be a limited number of older players, for example to provide match practice following an injury lay-off and to facilitate their reintegration into the first-team squad.
What is the competition format?
The so-called Swiss model is the preferred format, meaning that not every team will play each other. The competition is to be played throughout the year in two separate half-seasons. Participating teams are to play between three and six matches per half-season. Over the coming weeks, the DFL will consult all clubs regarding their individual preferences for the number of additional matches per club. The competition will conclude with a final tournament.
When and where will matches be played?
The matches are to be played at the training centres of the participating clubs, or at selected neutral venues (for example, sports schools). This is intended to minimise travel arrangements and associated costs for the clubs. The clubs will agree among themselves on the choice of venue and the exact timing of matches.
Why are the matches being played behind closed doors?
The aim is to provide talented players with more high-quality playing time at a competitive level, whilst keeping the organisational and financial burden on clubs to a minimum. This would be hindered by a competition that has to meet the requirements of an event with spectators.
Will the matches be broadcast?
The media coverage of the U21 tournament is one of the key issues that will be further explored in the coming months. With a particular focus on the final tournament, the possibility of holding matches in front of spectators, media coverage and marketing are being examined.
What exactly did the DFL General Assembly decide on 3 March 2026?
At a joint meeting of the DFL Executive Committee and Supervisory Board on 27 January 2026, the Executive Committee resolved to propose the adoption of competition rules for the new U21 competition at the DFL General Assembly on 3 March 2026.
These competition rules, which were incorporated into the Articles of Association following a resolution by the General Meeting, form the legal basis for introducing the competition as early as the 2026/27 season. Over the coming weeks, the competition rules will be finalised based on the results of a club survey regarding the details of how the competition will be run.
By when must interested clubs register their participation in the competition?
Clubs must officially register their participation in the competition for the upcoming season with the DFL by 15 June 2026.
