Overview
- The Deutsche Fußball Liga called off the match less than three hours before the 20:30 kickoff after consulting independent structural engineers and HSV stadium director Daniel Nolte.
- Experts reported that meltwater trapped under the roof membrane created dangerous point loads that could tear the material and potentially dislodge the suspended catwalk.
- HSV had deployed up to ten climbers and pumps over several days to clear snow and ice, but a rapid thaw and rain led to new water accumulations and a visible bulge.
- Inspections scheduled for Wednesday will assess possible membrane damage and inform a decision on the status of the home game against Borussia Mönchengladbach.
- A new date for the Leverkusen fixture and ticket guidance will follow in the coming days, as winter conditions have already moved other northern matches to January 27.