DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga and Tourism and Events Queensland sign Memorandum of Understanding to support Queensland’s growth through the power of football
- DFL and Tourism and Events Queensland sign agreement in Brisbane, with focus on increased Bundesliga presence engaging fans and fostering local communities in Queensland
- Queensland is a major sports hub, with Gold Coast having hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2018 and Brisbane in line to host the 2032 Olympic Games
- The Bundesliga currently has more Australian players than any of the top five leagues in Europe
28 August 2025 – The DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga and Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Brisbane, Australia, signalling their intention to work closely together in the coming years. As part of this collaboration, the two parties aim to deliver a summer festival of football bringing together Australian and German traditions, alongside a wider focus to foster the development of football across the region. The MoU was signed in Brisbane by Bundesliga International Head of APAC Kevin Sim and TEQ CEO Craig Davidson.
The MoU focuses on strengthening the popularity of football across the State of Queensland, through a range of community projects, such as integrating the Bundesliga into existing sporting and cultural events, exploring other opportunities for collaboration football programmes, and utilising the Bundesliga’s position as one of the world’s most popular football leagues to drive commercial opportunities in Queensland.
It is the first time that such an MoU has been signed by the DFL in Australia, and represents a clear commitment to football fans Down Under.
“Queensland is considered a prominent sports hub in a country renowned for passionate sports fans and, with the Summer Olympic Games confirmed for 2032, this fervency will continue to grow,” said Peer Naubert, Chief Executive Officer of Bundesliga International.
“This MoU serves as a starting point for our cooperation, and opens the door for further opportunities. We are excited to work directly with the Queensland government, bringing Football As Its Meant To Be to fans new and old across the region.”
The connection between the Bundesliga and Australia remains strong. Current FC St Pauli captain Jackson Irvine has played 78 times for the Socceroos, while clubmate Connor Metcalfe is also a national team regular. With Kasey Bos joining 1. FSV Mainz 05, the Bundesliga has more Australian players than any of the other top five European leagues.
“This MoU with the Bundesliga is a powerful example of how we’re delivering on our Destination 2045 promise, to make Queensland the number one destination in Australia and a global leader in world-class events and experiences,” said Andrew Powell, Queensland Minister for Tourism.
“By bringing one of the world’s most iconic football leagues to Queensland, we’re not only growing the game, we’re creating new opportunities for tourism, trade, and community connection across the state.” TEQ CEO Craig Davidson added that a partnership with the Bundesliga would help Queensland stand out on the global stage in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“The Bundesliga MoU is a strategic win for Queensland, aimed at strengthening our events pipeline, and showcasing Queensland’s capability as host of globally significant experiences,” Mr Davidson said.
“From grassroots football to major festivals, this MoU will help us to explore the kind of unforgettable moments that define our state, especially as we work towards the 2032 Games.”