Overview

• The Dachverband der Fanhilfen’s 2024/25 season report lists 24 cases of disproportionate police operations against supporters across all league levels, matching last season’s tally.
• Documented interventions include forced stadium entry bans, baton strikes and pepper spray use that in some instances left fans requiring medical attention after travel delays.
• The Gewerkschaft der Polizei argues that firm police action is necessary to counter ultras and extremist violence and to protect families attending matches.
• The report warns of expanding digital surveillance tactics, including location tracking via transit apps and hotel guest data requests, as potential violations of fans’ privacy rights.
• Fan advocates oppose a constitutional court decision allowing states to bill clubs for policing at high-risk fixtures, cautioning that shifting costs to teams or spectators could jeopardize club finances.