“It’s about protecting the club’s existence”

The decision was made after a general meeting between all 36 clubs in the Bundesliga and the Bundesliga 2. As a result, FC Schalke’s upcoming game against FC Augsburg will no longer take place at the weekend (21st March). Due to the subsequent international break, league operations will therefore be suspended until 2nd April.

It will be decided in the week beginning on 30th March, whether or not the Bundesliga will be able to continue that weekend.

Alexander Jobst, Head of Marketing and Communications at FC Schalke 04, has released a statement from the club:

“We are all aware of the current threat to the nation’s health. Ensuring the health of the population is our number one priority! However, the consequences of the current situation also pose a threat to both the existence of FC Schalke 04, and to the rest of the clubs in the Bundesliga and the Bundesliga 2.

The dynamics of the virus are affecting essential parts of our society. Nevertheless, we are determined to finish the Bundesliga season in the best possible way, even if we are unable to predict how it will develop over time. It’s our responsibility, both to Schalke 04 and to professional football as a whole.

While completely understanding the desire of football fans to watch Bundesliga games from within the stadium, it must first and foremost be our primary aim to play the remaining games and to finish the season, even if it has to be behind closed doors. Revenue from media and sponsorships are essential for the existence of FC Schalke 04 and of other professional clubs. It’s important to make that clear to everyone who follows the Bundesliga as well as all of our fans.”