Waldhof Mannheim against Kaiserslautern: DFB court imposes penalty after cup riot

In the first round of the DFB Cup there was a local derby against Kaiserslautern. FCK won 1-0 in Mannheim. The decisive goal came in the 120th minute, a few moments before a possible penalty shootout. There had already been a storm, shortly after the final whistle of regular time. The police had to intervene, among other things, with a horse relay to bring the situation back under control. After the players formed a pack, FCK fans threw fireworks onto the field. The game could only be continued after a delay of around 20 minutes.

“Border far exceeded”

Around 1,400 police officers were deployed at the game, 35 of whom were injured. Several fans were temporarily arrested. In addition, 85 spectators had to receive medical care, eight of whom were taken to hospital for further treatment.

“The incidents in Mannheim have far exceeded a limit; it has nothing to do with fandom and fan culture,” said Thomas Bergmann, DFB Vice President for Legal Affairs, according to the statement. "When rockets are fired onto the playing field and at emergency services, when people injure other people, we have to act consistently."

Kaiserslautern's managing director Thomas Hengen and Waldhof boss Gerhard Zuber had already spoken clearly after the game. »It's a derby, emotions are high, but something like that shouldn't get out of hand. That harms us, that harms everyone, that harms football," said Hengen on Sky. Zuber had a similar view: “If rockets are fired into the family block, the limit has been exceeded. At some point you have to be consistent and maybe stop playing.”

The enforcement of the partial exclusion of Waldhof fans is suspended for one of the games. The club accepted the verdict. The next third division game against TSG Hoffenheim II on October 25th (7.30 p.m.) will take place with spectators partially excluded. Access includes holders of certain season tickets, VIP and referee tickets as well as visiting fans. Free ticket sales are not permitted. The first ten rows of spectators in the main stand must be kept clear.