Berlin's Historic 'Fußball-Woche' Ends After 102 Years Amid Financial Struggles
After 102 years, Berlin's 'Fußball-Woche' closes due to financial difficulties despite efforts to save the historic football publication.
- • 'Fußball-Woche' stops publication after 102 years due to financial pressures.
- • Publisher Horst Bläsig cites declining revenues and rising costs as key reasons.
- • Attempts to sell or transfer ownership to the Berlin Football Association failed.
- • The magazine was notable for comprehensive coverage of Berlin's football from grassroots to professional levels.
Key details
The iconic Berlin-based publication 'Fußball-Woche' has ceased publication as of October 13, 2025, ending a distinguished run spanning over 102 years. Publisher Horst Bläsig announced the closure, attributing it to a "toxic mix" of declining revenues, rising costs, and a lack of investment funds. Despite long-standing efforts to sustain the magazine, including new marketing and content strategies, the financial challenges proved insurmountable.
'Fußball-Woche' was a central fixture in Berlin's football community, covering every level of the sport from youth leagues to the Bundesliga and offering distinguished coverage of amateur football. Its origins date back to 1923, with the publication navigating challenges through decades, including a temporary cessation during World War II and hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In recent years, attempts to modernize the magazine by expanding digital offerings increased costs rather than reversing the financial downturn. Negotiations for a takeover by the Berliner Fußball-Verband (Berlin Football Association) showed promise early in 2025 but ultimately collapsed when the necessary formal application was not submitted by the association's leadership. Discussions with a major Berlin publishing house also failed to produce a rescue deal.
Bläsig expressed deep regret over the closure, noting the profound loss the football community will feel. He emphasized the publication’s unique role in chronicling Berlin football's rich tapestry for over a century. Former readers and notable figures from the football world have voiced their sorrow, highlighting the magazine's cultural and sporting significance.
The final issue's release marks the end of an era in Berlin sports journalism, closing a chapter on one of the city’s most cherished football voices and underscoring the challenges faced by traditional media outlets in a shifting economic and digital landscape.