Borussia Dortmund president Hans-Joachim Watzke revealed in a television interview that the club’s leadership continues to coordinate through an internal WhatsApp group bearing the ironic internal designation “Elefantenrunde” (Elephant Round). Speaking with moderator Riccardo Basile on the Sky program “Meine Geschichte,” Watzke shared operational details about the private digital chat used by the Bundesliga club’s key executives.
The Origins and Members of the BVB WhatsApp Group
The messaging channel originated years ago under the direction of Michael Zorc, according to Watzke’s account. Zorc established the group and uploaded an elephant image to the chat’s profile picture, which prompted the internal moniker. Early participants in the digital forum included Watzke himself, Zorc, Matthias Sammer, and Sebastian Kehl, who exchanged sporting topics.
Despite significant personnel changes at the club—including Zorc’s departure and Watzke transitioning from his 20-year run in operative management to club president—the chat remains active. Watzke acknowledged his ongoing inclusion in the thread during the broadcast, stating that current administrators had not removed him. He identified Lars Ricken as the likely current administrator holding permissions to add or remove members, succeeding Zorc in that capacity.
Watzke Reflects on Internal Pressures and Presidency
In the same interview with Sky, Watzke addressed the personal strain surrounding his election to club president. He characterized the preceding year as the most difficult of his two decades at Borussia Dortmund due to internal intrigues and criticism regarding his public image. The executive noted that the scrutiny occasionally pushed him to consider stepping away entirely, though a sense of institutional responsibility ultimately kept him in place because the club lacked immediate contingency plans for a sudden departure.
Following his exit from day-to-day administrative duties, Watzke reported a shift in his personal relationship with matchdays. Freed from the immediate operational burdens where performance outcomes were tied directly to him, he noted a gradual return of anticipation and relaxation regarding upcoming fixtures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who started the Borussia Dortmund leadership WhatsApp group? Michael Zorc created the chat years ago, setting an elephant profile picture that inspired the internal name “Elefantenrunde.”
- Who currently administers the chat? According to Hans-Joachim Watzke, Lars Ricken now manages the group permissions, taking over the administrator role previously held by Zorc.
- Is Hans-Joachim Watzke still a member of the group? Yes, Watzke confirmed during his appearance on Sky’s “Meine Geschichte” that he retains membership in the chat despite stepping down from operative management to become club president.
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