"Not fans, but criminals": horror after riots with 120 injured in Mannheim

In the early evening of Friday, during the first round match of the DFB-Pokal between Waldhof Mannheim and 1. FC Kaiserslautern, chaos erupted on and around the pitch, resulting in over 120 injuries. The incident, described by local authorities as one of the worst in recent memory, saw fans launching rockets onto the field and into the stands, leading to a near-abandonment of the game. Police deployed horse-mounted units and dogs to regain control of the situation, which had become increasingly volatile before the final whistle. The violence began well before the match started, with fireworks being launched onto the pitch. As play resumed, tensions escalated further when players from both teams clashed, prompting a confrontation that threatened to end the match prematurely. Fans continued their disruptive behavior, hurling projectiles at the stadium’s infrastructure and engaging in physical altercations. At one point, several supporters stormed the field, forcing police intervention. The scene was marked by disorder, with reports of multiple arrests and significant damage to property. According to official statements, 35 police officers were lightly injured during the disturbances, while 85 spectators required medical attention, eight of whom were hospitalized. A total of 1,400 law enforcement personnel were deployed to manage the crisis, which culminated in the match being postponed for nearly 30 minutes. Despite the chaotic circumstances, the game eventually proceeded to extra time after the situation stabilized following a substantial police presence. Michael Reichert, the police director overseeing the operation, praised the effectiveness of the tactical approach employed by the security forces. He emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among all involved agencies, stating that the strategy was fully realized. Meanwhile, Baden-Württemberg's Interior Minister, Manuel Hagel, commended the professionalism of the police while condemning the actions of the fans. He characterized the event as a high-risk scenario, noting that those who used football as a platform for violence were not fans but criminals. Initial investigations have been launched against individuals suspected of offenses including insults, assault, vandalism, breach of peace, attacks on police officers, and violations of explosives laws. Both clubs face potential repercussions, with plans to compile a detailed report for review by the sports committee or court. Referee Robert Schröder confirmed that the match was close to being abandoned due to the danger posed by the projectiles fired onto the field and stands. He stated that once safety concerns arose, the game could no longer continue under normal conditions. Kaiserslautern’s sporting director, Thomas Hengen, expressed disappointment over the events, calling them detrimental to the sport itself. He noted that he had not anticipated the match would reach its conclusion. Players from both sides reportedly voiced confusion and concern regarding the conduct of some fans, with one player describing the atmosphere as particularly intense and unusual.