DFB fined €110,000 in 2006 World Cup tax case

The Frankfurt Regional Court has fined the German Football Association (DFB) €110,000 over tax reporting irregularities involving the 2006 World Cup payment.

The court ruling states that while DFB correctly reported its 2006 World Cup income — there was an issue with the timing of a €6.7 million tax deduction that should have been made in 2002, not 2006.

The initial fine of €130,000 was reduced by €20,000 due to the lengthy duration of proceedings. DFB stated it is awaiting the written verdict before deciding on a possible appeal.

This case is part of a series of investigations into controversial payments that tarnished the tournament’s reputation. Previously, a 2016 DFB internal investigation revealed the funds were a loan repayment through FIFA from former Adidas chief.