Chaos at the Hansa birthday: firecrackers and pyrotechnics in Rostock!

Chaos at the Hansa birthday: firecrackers and pyrotechnics in Rostock!

On Sunday, FC Hansa Rostock celebrated its 60th club birthday with a loud noise. However, the celebrations in downtown Rostock did not go entirely smoothly. Loud NDR Some supporters lit firecrackers and other pyrotechnics. The police had their hands full and counted around 900 people on the Neuer Markt between 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Over 30 officers from the Rostock police station were on duty to ensure order and recorded a variety of crimes at several locations between Steintor and Doberaner Platz.

The effects of the pyrotechnics could not be overlooked. Among other things, a tram was damaged by fireworks. Vandals also left paint smears and stickers on several buildings and billboards that remained visible until Monday morning. A particularly serious incident occurred in front of the Ostseestadion, where the fire brigade had to put out a large battery of fireworks.

High penalties for the club

The incidents on the birthday weekend come at a very bad time for FC Hansa Rostock, as the DFB sports court imposed a fine totaling over 100,000 euros on the club on December 17th. This fine results from the use of pyrotechnics by fans during two home games. 75,250 euros were due for 145 offenses in the third division derby against FC Energie Cottbus on September 30th alone. The club also had to pay a further 32,950 euros for an incident at the home game against TSV 1860 Munich, in which a nine-year-old boy was seriously injured daily news reported. The penalties are legally binding, and up to 25,050 euros can be used for security or violence prevention measures.

Before the last home game before the winter break, FC Hansa expressly asked its fans not to throw cups or lighters onto the pitch. However, there was no mention of pyrotechnics, which is unfortunate given the recurring nature of the incidents.

Legal situation and consequences

The legal framework for the use of pyrotechnics in football is clear: it is completely banned in Germany. The use can result in serious penalties, which are not only punishable under sports law, but also under administrative offenses or criminal law. The consequences for violations can range up to 10 years in prison lawyer.org explained. Certainly not exactly the kind of “fireworks” that fans want for their fan culture. The active fan scene is calling for a legal framework, as many argue that pyrotechnics are part of the stadium atmosphere. Nevertheless, the DFB and DFL are vehemently against legalization, which is further fueling the discussion.

While the discussion about pyrotechnics continues, it remains to be seen how FC Hansa Rostock will deal with the financial and social consequences of these incidents. One thing is certain: supporters must act more responsibly to protect not only the club, but also the community.