DEL2 shareholders closed for second application attempt / Franz Reindl: “Professional ice hockey needs promotion and relegation”
The fastest possible integration between the two professional leagues remains the highest priority for the DEL2. "German professional ice hockey needs promotion and relegation, everyone involved agrees on this," said DEL2 managing director René Rudorisch and Franz Reindl (President of the German Ice Hockey Federation) in unison immediately after a DEL2 shareholders' meeting in Frankfurt. The German Ice Hockey League (DEL), represented by the two supervisory board members Jürgen Arnold and Daniel Hopp, was also present at the meeting. "Especially in connection with the home World Cup next year, we should use the momentum and bring German ice hockey a step forward again," added Reindl.
Accordingly, the representatives of the DEL2 clubs agreed in principle and unanimously to take part again in the procedure agreed with the DEL to introduce promotion and relegation. This was preceded by a constructive discussion with everyone involved about the difficulties and possibilities in meeting the requirements. Among other things, the stadium requirements were specified and discussed together again.
The agreement between both leagues stipulates that at least six DEL2 clubs must deposit a guarantee of 31 euros each by March 2017, 816.000. In addition, their arenas must meet minimum standards. If the DEL2 fulfills the agreement, a promoted or relegated team will be determined by the 2018/19 season at the latest.
"The demands on the DEL2 clubs are very high. Nevertheless, we must and will adhere to the agreement we have reached with the DEL in the interests of a healthy perspective for our sport," explained René Rudorisch: "Clubs and the league will invest all their strength in meeting the deadline and hope for broad support at the locations. The league, but also German professional ice hockey, need this sporting perspective."