Thomas Weikert Steps Down: DOSB President Will Not Seek Re-election

Stepping Down After Five Years at the Helm

Thomas Weikert confirmed his departure ahead of the upcoming leadership vote, concluding a five-year tenure that began in December 2021 when he succeeded Alfons Hörmann. The 64-year-old attorney from Limburg pointed to the immense day-to-day demands of the position, noting that the unpaid nature of the role through most of his mandate combined with a nearly full-time workload made another four-year commitment unfeasible. Weikert, who turns 65 in November, explained that he could no longer sustain the heavy travel schedule while simultaneously maintaining his legal practice.

Internal Friction and Shifting Support

While Weikert achieved near-unanimous backing when he was re-elected in 2022 with 99 percent of the vote, political dynamics within the umbrella organization shifted significantly over the following years. Regional sports federations and several major professional associations indicated earlier in 2025 that they intended to back a different candidate. Critics within the movement had frequently argued that his leadership style was insufficiently assertive, though Weikert defended his collaborative approach as essential for maintaining broad consensus.

Transition and Next Leadership Steps

The DOSB has established a dedicated search committee to vet potential successors, with member organizations permitted to submit nominations until October 30. Among the figures frequently mentioned as possible candidates is DOSB presidency member and International Olympic Committee member Michael Mronz, alongside Martin Engelhardt, president of the German Triathlon Union. Weikert indicated that he intends to remain active in sports administration through his role on the executive committee of the European Olympic Committees (EOC), where he has helped advance discussions regarding potential bids for the European Games.