For the third-division soccer clubs FC Hansa Rostock and Dynamo Dresden, things could soon get uncomfortable. After the riots by violent fans last weekend, the clubs are facing harsh consequences. There was also harsh criticism from politicians.
"It is shameful and saddens me that children are frightened when visiting a stadium," said Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's Sports Minister Stefanie Drese (SPD) when asked by the German Press Agency. Hansa coach Daniel Brinkmann reported that his son had cried in fear in the stadium after the outbreaks of violence that left more than 50 people injured.
"The recent excesses of violence and rioting by so-called fans from both camps are repulsive and shocking," continued Minister Drese. Her hope is "that the club and the police will identify and punish many of these anti-social perpetrators".