After the chaos at the Real game, the pressure on FC Bayern is growing: the Association of German Sports Journalists is now calling for a full investigation into the incidents
Following the turbulent scenes at the quarter-final second leg of the Champions League between FC Bayern and Real Madrid, the Association of German Sports Journalists (VDS) is taking action – and has sent an urgent letter to the record champions and UEFA
The letter was triggered by the events following Bayern’s 4:3 winning goal, when numerous fans from the south curve stormed into the stadium to celebrate with the team – a prohibited action in which several photographers were injured
Agency photographer Kai Pfaffenbach was hit particularly hard, even losing consciousness in the commotion. According to initial findings, at least one other photographer suffered a laceration. There are also said to have been other victims
The police have launched an investigation on suspicion of bodily harm. At the same time, disciplinary proceedings have been initiated by UEFA. These include unauthorized entry into the interior of the stadium, blocking pathways and throwing objects
Clear demands from the association
Kevin Voigt, Vice President of the VDS, announced a corresponding letter in BILD: „We will send a letter to FC Bayern as the stadium operator and UEFA as the organizer of the match in which several photographers were injured. In it, we want to ask for a complete review of the incident. In the interests of those affected and all other journalists, what happened must not simply be ticked off just because everyone is now doing well again under the circumstances. Because with a little bad luck, much worse could have happened.“
Voigt also calls for preventative measures for the future: „All those responsible must now work preventatively to ensure that something like this doesn’t happen again – including with representatives of the fan scene. I understand that emotions run high during a match, but they must not endanger those working inside the stadium. Solutions are needed so that everyone there can do their job safely.“
Problem not an isolated case
According to the association, this is not an isolated case. Time and again, dangerous situations for media representatives occur in German stadiums. Voigt reported: „Pyrotechnics are repeatedly thrown into the stadium, but also cups full of beer or bodily fluids, which then hit photographers.“
The VDS is therefore not only seeking talks with FC Bayern and UEFA, but also a broader exchange with other clubs and associations
Meanwhile, the investigation is continuing. In addition to questioning witnesses and those affected, charges will also be brought against persons unknown. One thing is already clear: the incident will keep FC Bayern busy for some time to come.