The pyrodrama at the DFB Cup: FCM fans show their presence and protest!

The pyrodrama at the DFB Cup: FCM fans show their presence and protest!

On November 1, 2025, 1. FC Magdeburg not only experienced sporting highs in the DFB Cup game against FV Illertissen (3-0), but also some tricky situations off the pitch. The guest block was filled with firecrackers and flares, a classic image of pyrotechnics that is firmly anchored in German fan culture. Despite urgent announcements from the stadium announcer, the fans were not dissuaded from their brutal expression of support. What was brewing is much more than just a game - it is a conflict that is heating up tempers in German football.

In advance, the DFB's penalty policy caused a lot of criticism. 1. FC Magdeburg had to shell out a whopping 220,800 euros for pyrotechnic offenses last season, after the total amount in the 2023/24 season was almost 300,000 euros. The football club and its fans would have liked to see constructive solutions, but these are not in sight. Instead, the DFB continues to reiterate its zero-tolerance policy towards pyrotechnics, which has already led to further incidents this season, despite no fines to date.

Press and police in focus

After the game in Illertissen, an incident occurred in the city center in which a fan allegedly threw a stone at a police officer. In keeping with the spirit of Fanhilfe Magdeburg, which criticized the police operations as excessive, many supporters not only prepared for the game, but also for a massive police presence, which was described as disproportionate. They reported searches of cars without cause and fans being closely accompanied after the final whistle.

But the conflict goes beyond incidents in one city. The discussion about pyrotechnics in football is a complex topic. Fans feel pyrotechnics are part of their culture and support. Fan researchers like Harald Lange make it clear that, in addition to pyrotechnics, it is also about the balance of power in football. In this context, various fan scenes are calling for an abolition of association penalties for the non-abusive use of pyrotechnics.

Symbolism and future of fan culture

The symbolic meaning of pyrotechnics will not disappear from arenas, according to reports. An incident that hit the headlines during a minute's silence for former Hertha president Kay Bernstein in January 2024 underlines this. While Bernstein also spoke out in favor of partial legalization of pyrotechnics, the reality remains tense for many fans. This season, fines in German football have totaled over 11 million euros, highlighting the increasing difficulties and tensions between fans and the football establishment.

Amid these challenges, the question remains: What happens next? The Fanhilfe Magdeburg and other groups actively advocate for the interests of the fans, but can do little against the DFB's strict line. Cultural workers in football are faced with the task of finding a balance between security and tradition.

It remains to be seen how the situation will develop. One thing is certain, however: the debate surrounding pyrotechnics and the role of fans will continue to be a hot topic that concerns everyone involved.

For more information on current developments in fan culture and the challenges for German football, visit the articles from Magdeburg football and RBB24.