Köln Fans Display Controversial Knife Banner During Rhein-Derby

The club's management defends the provocative fan choreography, which was approved despite its violent imagery.

1. FC Köln fans unveiled a banner showing a man with a knife to Fortuna's neck during their 1:1 draw with Fortuna Düsseldorf in the Rhein-Derby.
The banner, accompanied by mocking laughter over loudspeakers, bore the message 'Luck is no gift from the gods.'
Köln’s sports director Christian Keller stated the choreography was approved beforehand, arguing it reflects fan culture rivalry rather than inciting violence.
The match was classified as a high-security event, with 1,000 police officers deployed to manage fan behavior and prevent clashes.
Düsseldorf fans caused disruptions during their arrival, including pyrotechnic use, resulting in police interventions and extensive street closures.