VfL Wolfsburg: Accessibility will be mandatory from June 2025!

VfL Wolfsburg: Accessibility will be mandatory from June 2025!

In today's digital world, accessibility is no longer just a buzzword, but an important concern for all services offered. On June 27, 2025, the accessibility statement for the VfL Wolfsburg website and the associated app and newsletter was published. This declaration is not just an obligation, but a sign of the responsibility that VfL Wolfsburg- Fußball GmbH has towards its users. VfL Wolfsburg- Fußball GmbH is based at Allerwiesen 1, 38446 Wolfsburg and is registered in the Braunschweig commercial register under HRB No. 100486. According to VfL Wolfsburg, accessibility is based on a clear legal framework, the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG), as well as BITV 2.0, WCAG 2.1 and EN 301 549 (Level AA).

This declaration emphasizes that VfL Wolfsburg's digital offerings “partially” meet the accessibility requirements. However, some areas require improvement. For example, there are limitations to the video functions, which means that subtitles can be missing and playback usually doesn't work properly. Even when it comes to images and graphics, there is often a lack of the necessary text alternatives. Unclear link texts and difficult-to-read contrasts represent a further obstacle for many users. On forms, the labeling could be clearer and helpful feedback in the event of errors could be more present.

The legal framework: BFSG

The Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG), which comes into force in Germany on June 28, 2025, is a crucial measure that ensures accessibility in the digital space. It implements the EU Directive 2019/882 on accessibility requirements for products and services. This law applies not only to websites, but also to apps and online shops. It requires providers to ensure that everyone, including those with different limitations, has access to their digital content. BFSG Law informs that exceptions only exist for private or purely business offers and that smaller companies are excluded.

Particularly strict regulations apply to providers of essential services such as banks or health services. They not only have to make the website barrier-free, but also implement the requirements of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) from levels A and AA. Anyone who is not careful and neglects these guidelines will face legal consequences such as warnings and fines from the deadline.

What does this mean for operators?

Not only large companies are required, but small and medium-sized companies can also be held responsible. From June 29, 2025, all online shops and essential websites must be barrier-free, and individual services are even subject to a deadline of June 27, 2030. The effort pays off - not only legally, but also in terms of social responsibility and in the interest of a broader customer base. Accessibility refers to various users with visual, hearing or motor impairments. Anyone interested can find comprehensive information at deinesperrefreiheit.de.

Successful implementation of accessibility not only includes technical measures, but also correct communication with users. VfL Wolfsburg- Fußball GmbH provides contact options for feedback, including by email to service@vfl-wolfsburg.de or by telephone at 05361 - 8903 - 903. Future updates to the accessibility declaration should be made continuously in order to comply with legal requirements.

In summary, accessibility in the digital space is more than a legal obligation - it is the key to an inclusive society that includes everyone and leaves no one behind.