Viktoria Cologne: Records in the crisis – future despite budget cuts!

Viktoria Cologne: Records in the crisis – future despite budget cuts!

There's a lot going on in the world of football at Viktoria Köln. The club currently has to cope with a shrinking budget and is facing upheaval. Managing Director Axel Freiswinkel is still optimistic about the future. Despite the financial challenges, he reports increased revenue and a record in the past season, which boasted an impressive score and victory in the Association Cup.

Last season was characterized by dreams of promotion, which, however, could not be pursued in the second half of the season. “We lost the necessary games against our direct competitors,” explains Freisewinkel. A win against Saarbrücken could potentially have led to relegation. Nevertheless, order Eric Bock started the season with a grade of eight or nine, which Freisewinkel contradicts. "The last few months have been really successful; we have been in the promotion race for a long time."

Financial challenges and short-term planning

With a budget that was cut by more than 20 percent last summer, the club is relying on sustainable financial planning. A further reduction of five to ten percent is expected for the coming season. These savings are necessary to ensure a healthy balance between performance and financial stability. “We are actively working to improve our economic situation,” said Freisewinkel. The sale of player Zoumana Keita to Anderlecht is part of this strategy.

The club currently has 22 players under contract; many of them were dream players for those in charge. The departure of expensive players like Moritz Fritz and Patrick Koronkiewicz also relieves the budget. The number of spectators also reached a new record level last season: over 4,600 spectators per game. The goal is to break the 5,000 spectator mark next season.

Future-oriented measures

To further support this development, Viktoria Cologne has also achieved records in the sponsorship sector. An expansion of the VIP area is already being planned as demand is enormous. Renovations in the sports park are also on the agenda: the fan shop will be enlarged, new standing areas and renovated players' cabins will be created, and a roof for the standing stands is being discussed. However, there are no short-term solutions in sight yet.

Those responsible have also started discussions with potential investors, with last season's success making negotiations easier. An investor should be found within two years, preferably from the region. “Club life will benefit from local investments,” emphasizes Freisewinkel.

The club has already signed eight new players for the coming season and is planning further reinforcements, especially for offensive positions. Bock emphasizes that many players consciously chose Viktoria Köln, despite tempting financial offers from other clubs. “There is something going on,” Freisewinkel is optimistic that the talented new additions and the return to a successful style of play will set the course for a happy and successful 2025/26 season.

With Marian Wilhelm as the new coach on the sidelines, a breath of fresh air will blow into the sports park. Freisewinkel is sure that the upheaval in the squad will not be exceptionally large and hopes to quickly collect 45 points in order to be able to compete in the lower third of financially strong clubs. The squad planning of Valentin Schäfer and Stephan Küsters will be put to the test again, but the hope for an exciting season remains.