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German Police Union Presses for Stadium Facial Recognition as Bundesliga Season Begins

The police union says robust action against troublemakers demands facial recognition tools with more officers inside stadiums.

Overview

  • GdP chair Jochen Kopelke called for legally secure use of automated facial-recognition systems and person scanners, particularly near the curva sections.
  • He forecast a substantial increase in police deployment hours at professional matches and argued that in-stadium policing remains essential.
  • Kopelke urged leagues and clubs to invest immediately in security personnel and infrastructure to fulfill their event protection duties.
  • Fan representative Linda Röttig rejected the plan as “total surveillance fantasies,” warning of violations of supporters’ fundamental rights.
  • The call comes on the eve of the Bundesliga kickoff, sharpening an ongoing dispute over surveillance measures, policing levels, and matchday culture.