Long-serving German referee sues DFB over “age discrimination”

Long-serving Bundesliga referee Manuel Graefe is taking legal action against the German football federation (DFB) over alleged age discrimination.

“I am suing the DFB for age discrimination,” Graefe told an interview with the Zeit magazine on Thursday.

“The DFB is taking away what I enjoy. Of course there are also financial losses. I will at least try to claim these.”

Graefe had to finish his career at the end of last season in spite of very good performances because he reached the refereeing age limit of 47 set by the DFB.

“I would have liked to continue. My feet, knees and hip are fine. But the DFB is insisting on an anachronistic rule,” he complained, stressing: “I feel like I could referee until 50 or longer.”

He wants to fight for the entire German refereeing profession in court, as the rule also affects other colleagues.

Graefe, who has been praised by many coaches and players, made it clear however he would not return to the pitch.

“I myself will no longer referee, even if I am successful with my complaint,” he said.