VfB Leipzig[b]

Verein für Bewegungsspiele Leipzig, commonly known as VfB Leipzig, holds a place of honor in the annals of German football. Officially founded on May 13, 1896, with antecedents tracing back to Sportbrüder Leipzig of 1893, the club quickly emerged as a dominant force in the dawn of organized football in Germany. Its participation was crucial in the creation of the German Football Federation (DFB) in Leipzig in January 1900.

The early glory of VfB Leipzig materialized by winning the first German football championship in 1903, a milestone that cemented its legendary status. This success was followed by two more national titles before World War I, consolidating its position as one of the most powerful teams of the era. The club's history is complex, marked by dissolutions, mergers, and name changes, reflecting the tumultuous political and social changes in Germany. During the GDR era, its traditions were unofficially continued by successor clubs, most notably 1. FC Lokomotive Leipzig. After German reunification, the name VfB Leipzig re-emerged, and even competed in the Bundesliga during the 1993-94 season. Despite subsequent financial difficulties that led to its dissolution and later resurgence under the name 1. FC Lokomotive Leipzig, the legacy of the original VfB Leipzig as a pioneer and multi-champion remains a fundamental part of Leipzig's football identity.