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Bengali flares and high penalties: Cottbus fans under criticism!
Hansa Rostock plays against Energie Cottbus; Fine of 42,000 euros for pyrotechnics violations. DFB remains strict.
Bengali flares and high penalties: Cottbus fans under criticism!
The cheering of fans in football stadiums regularly leads to heated debates, especially when it comes to the use of pyrotechnics. A current example is the third division game on May 10, 2025 between Hansa Rostock and Energie Cottbus, in which the Cottbus supporters caused a stir by setting off over 120 pyrotechnic objects. A particularly striking 75 Bengal flares were lit in the 47th minute, followed by further ignitions during and after the game. However, these fireworks had consequences: The DFB was forced to impose a fine of 42,000 euros on FC Energie Cottbus, which amounts to a fine of 350 euros per pyrotechnic device. The association can use up to 14,000 euros for security measures, including proof until December 31, 2025.
Like the page Niederlausitz-aktuell.de reported, the burning of pyrotechnics remains prohibited for safety reasons, and the DFB emphasizes the clubs' responsibility for the behavior of their fans. The discussion about pyrotechnics in German stadiums is by no means new, but rather a recurring topic in football.
A problem with many facets
But this is not the only time that the DFB is confronted with such incidents. In total, more than seven million euros in fines have been imposed since the strict measures were introduced sportschau.de notes. Many clubs are faced with the challenge of paying high fines, which can endanger the existence of some clubs. This particularly affects smaller clubs, as in the Regionalliga Nordost alone the penalties amounted to around 390,000 euros last season.
In the wake of the debate about pyrotechnics, Norway has launched a pilot project aimed at the controlled legalization of pyrotechnics in stadiums. The requirements for this are clearly defined: fans must be over 18 years old, complete training and remain sober, while burning is only permitted in marked areas. This initiative is intended to help curb unauthorized use and will be evaluated over the course of the 2025 season.
Where do the fines go?
The fines caused by fans not only affect individual clubs. A large part of the penalties go to the DFB foundations, such as the Egidius Braun and Sepp Herberger foundations. Explained like this mdr.de that the penalties end up in a common pot and a decision is made at the end of the year how the funds will be used. These funds support numerous social projects, including the promotion of blind and visually impaired people in blind football or football holiday camps for kids.
However, the discussion about the possible legalization of pyrotechnics in German stadiums remains controversial. Fan initiatives like “Pro Pyro” are calling for a reform of the bans, but have not yet responded to requests. However, the DFB remains strictly against the burning of pyrotechnics, as the dangers and safety risks for everyone involved are estimated to be too high.
The future of pyrotechnics in football remains exciting. Until there is an amicable solution, authorities and clubs will continue to face the challenge of finding the right balance between security and passionate fan culture.