Dortmund, Germany – A surge in football-related violence involving supporters of multiple German clubs, including Borussia Dortmund, Energie Cottbus, FC Schalke 04, and Rot-Weiss essen, has prompted a firm response from police authorities. Over 110 individuals were issued stadium bans following a recent clash, signaling a zero-tolerance policy toward disruptive and violent behavior.
These incidents, occurring between April and october 2025, demonstrate a concerning escalation in fan aggression. On April 13th, riots broke out in Dortmund between supporters of Borussia Dortmund II and Energie Cottbus. More seriously,on september 21st,several hundred FC Schalke 04 fans engaged in confrontations with Dortmund and Cologne supporters in a forest,even resorting to activating an emergency brake on a train during their return from an away game. Later that same day in Gelsenkirchen, individuals suspected of being Schalke 04 fans attacked attendees at a private party, including supporters of Rot-Weiss Essen. An FC Schalke 04 fan march in Dublin on October 12th resulted in at least two injuries when individuals obstructed the group’s path.
Investigations are ongoing into all reported incidents, including a separate event that occurred Saturday at Cologne Central Station.Dortmund police spokesperson Torsten Sziesze can be reached at 0231/132-1030 or via email at poea.dortmund@polizei.nrw.de for further information. Authorities emphasize a commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens and maintaining order at sporting events.
