1. FC Köln Fined €316,400 for Fan Misconduct, DFB Allows Partial Reinvestment in Security
The German Football Association penalizes 1. FC Köln for repeated pyrotechnic incidents, with conditions for reduced fines tied to violence prevention measures.
- 1. FC Köln has been fined €316,400 by the DFB for four cases of unsporting fan behavior, primarily involving pyrotechnics.
- The fine includes penalties for incidents on December 4, 2024, and subsequent matches in December 2024, January 2025, and February 2025.
- A 50% reduction in the main penalty was granted after two individuals responsible for pyrotechnic use were identified by the club.
- Up to €105,500 of the fine can be redirected toward security or violence prevention measures, provided proper documentation is submitted by December 31, 2025.
- The DFB warns that further incidents could lead to stricter sanctions beyond financial penalties, including potential additional restrictions.