German FA, Interior Minister Criticize Violence at Mannheim-Kaiserslautern Soccer Match

Riots erupted during a German Cup soccer match between SV Waldhof Mannheim and 1. FC Kaiserslautern, resulting in 85 injuries and prompting investigations by the German Football Association (DFB) and law enforcement.

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The German Football Association will evaluate the reports and forward them to the competent bodies.

The disturbances began after 90 scoreless minutes when, following a confrontation between players on the field, some Kaiserslautern fans threw fireworks into the stands. This triggered Mannheim fans to invade the pitch, leading to clashes with approximately 1,400 security personnel, including police officers on horseback. Thirty-five police officers sustained minor injuries.

The DFB condemned the violence, stating there is "no place for security-endangering behavior in football" and announced it would forward a special report to the relevant committees. Referee Robert Schröder noted the report would be extensive. The match's start for extra time was briefly delayed due to the unrest, though play resumed without further incident.

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There is no place for security-endangering behavior in football.

Authorities are investigating multiple offenses, including insults, bodily harm, property damage, breach of the peace, and violations of the Explosives Act. The state's Interior Minister, Manuel Hagel, also condemned the violence and called for penalties. The match, attended by about 23,500 spectators, including 3,500 away fans, saw tensions between the two fan groups, who have a history of animosity dating back to the early 1980s.

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The special report will be correspondingly long.