The clash between Dynamo Berlin and Energie Cottbus fans over the weekend resulted in a total of 155 police officers being injured. The majority of these injuries were caused by the police’s own tear gas. According to Berlin police, 116 officers sustained injuries due to tear gas use, 28 from assaults, and 11 after being struck by pyrotechnics set off by fans following the fourth-division match at Dynamo’s stadium. The Berlin senator for sport, Iris Spranger, expressed her strong disapproval of the violence and emphasized that the club needs to take responsibility for its fan base’s actions.
Security at football matches is crucial for police, particularly with Germany set to host the European Championship with 24 national teams this summer. The recent violence at the Dynamo Berlin and Energie Cottbus match raises concerns about the safety of such events. Germany’s interior minister, Nancy Faeser, condemned the violence, stating that it harms the spirit of sports. In preparation for potential trouble at matches, police have been undergoing training to handle similar situations effectively.
Both Dynamo Berlin and Energie Cottbus have a storied history, albeit tarnished with controversies. Dynamo Berlin won ten consecutive East German titles from 1979-1988 amid match-fixing allegations and is associated with the Stasi chief Erich Mielke. On the other hand, Energie Cottbus played in the Bundesliga during various periods but has struggled with challenges, including losing their best players to Dynamo Berlin at one point. Both clubs also have known far-right elements within their fan bases.
The clash between fans escalated when pyrotechnics were fired, and material was burned by both sets of supporters. The police had to intervene to prevent further escalation, but the situation continued to worsen even after the match ended. Tear gas, police dogs, and water cannons were used to disperse the crowds, with several fans being apprehended temporarily. A total of 62 criminal charges were filed, ranging from breaches of the peace to physical assaults.
Following the incident, Energie Cottbus coach Claus-Dieter Wollitz criticized the lack of security at the match, expressing fear for his safety. He described the aggression and threats faced during the game as beyond what is acceptable in the modern era. In response, Dynamo Berlin refuted the coach’s claims, stating that Wollitz’s behavior towards referees and other clubs has been provocative and emotional.
The violent clashes between Dynamo Berlin and Energie Cottbus fans have sparked concerns about safety and security at football matches. With the upcoming European Championship in Germany, it is essential for clubs and authorities to work together to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future. Football should be a source of joy and entertainment, not a platform for violence and unrest.