Torsten Burmester, DOSB Chairman, has announced his candidacy for the SPD nomination for Cologne’s mayoral election in autumn 2025. His nomination was confirmed by SPD Cologne on November 22, 2024, with official voting expected in early 2025. While he expresses enthusiasm for the role, Burmester’s dual commitments raise concerns about potential conflicts of interest, prompting calls for his resignation from DOSB. His extensive background in sports and politics positions him as a significant figure in this upcoming election.
Burmester Launches Candidacy for Cologne Mayoral Election
Torsten Burmester, the Chairman of the DOSB, has set his sights on becoming the SPD candidate for the mayoral election in Cologne, scheduled for autumn 2025. His candidacy was officially announced by the SPD Cologne on November 22, 2024. Party members are expected to formally elect him in early 2025.
Having called Cologne home for over three decades, Burmester commutes to Frankfurt am Main for his role with the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB). Expressing his gratitude for the nomination, Burmester stated, “I received the nomination with joy, gratitude, and humility,” and emphasized his commitment to serving the people of Cologne with “heart and joy.”
Changes at DOSB Amid Candidacy Announcement
Burmester’s announcement prompted an immediate response from the DOSB, indicating that changes at the top of the organization are imminent, regardless of the election outcome. The association refrained from providing further details to protect individual privacy. Jörg Ammon, spokesperson for the state sports federations, highlighted the need for unified leadership in the face of significant challenges in German sports.
The situation is further complicated by the recent extension of Burmester’s contract with the DOSB, raising questions about potential severance payments in the event of his dismissal. As a leading figure in German sports, Burmester is tasked with addressing critical issues, including the DOSB’s ambition to host the Olympic Games.
Despite concerns over conflicts of interest, Burmester likened his political engagement to that of other professionals, asserting, “The candidacy is feasible, but there must be transparency. I will discuss the details with my employer, the DOSB presidium.” His campaign plans include visiting all 86 districts and engaging with 10,000 residents directly.
However, the prospect of Burmester’s dual roles has sparked debate within the sports community, with CSU politician Stephan Mayer calling for his resignation from the DOSB if nominated as the SPD candidate. Mayer emphasized that leading the DOSB requires complete focus and political neutrality.
In contrast, SPD sports policy spokesperson Sabine Poschmann expressed her support for Burmester’s ambitions, stating, “It is important that there are no conflicts of interest… I consider a candidacy to be absolutely legitimate.”
Burmester’s background includes a diverse career, starting from his roots in Remscheid to studying at the German Sports University in Cologne. He has held various significant positions, including serving as a personal advisor to former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder and later as deputy head of the sports department at the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Since taking over as DOSB chairman in 2022, Burmester has been a key advocate for sports interests in political arenas, although recent political shifts have put some of his initiatives on hold.