Hansa Rostock Distances Itself from Hooligans Pictured with Swastika Flag

FC Hansa Rostock has drawn a clear line between itself and hooligans allegedly photographed posing in front of a swastika flag. The men were also allegedly involved in an arranged fight with supporters of Glasgow Rangers and Olympique Lyon near the club’s away match at Watford.

The club said it acted immediately after learning of the incident. It informed the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania state police, the Rostock federal police unit and the state Interior Ministry’s security service. Hansa also contacted the German Football Association and the relevant bodies responsible for stadium bans.

The incident came to light through a report by the investigative portal Exif, which published the photograph. Hansa said it was particularly disturbing that some of the people shown had also attended events connected with the club, including a children’s festival. The club said it had not known about their alleged background at the time and would examine the matter fully.

The investigation will cover possible membership of the club as well as current or former business, organizational or other relationships. Hansa said it would end any connections that conflict with its principles and values. Possible consequences include stadium bans and expulsion from the club.

“For us, one thing is clear: right-wing extremism, Nazi symbolism and contempt for humanity have no place at F.C. Hansa Rostock,” the club said. It added that it would not allow people’s conduct to damage the club or its supporters, or create an image of Hansa that contradicted its identity and values.

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For us, one thing is clear: right-wing extremism, Nazi symbolism and contempt for humanity have no place at F.C. Hansa Rostock.