Overview

• René Born, a member of St. Pauli’s supervisory board, wrote on Instagram that “no one is bigger than the club” and told Irvine he would soon be gone and “not more than a footnote.”
• Jemilla Irvine made Born’s remarks public by sharing the comments in an Instagram story about two weeks before Irvine’s interview.
• Irvine told ABC News the attack was deeply hurtful for him and his wife, but he highlighted strong backing from supporters in the St. Pauli community.
• The dispute traces to Irvine’s pro‑Palestinian activism, including wearing an “FC Palestine” jersey that omits Israel’s outline, which has drawn criticism within the club and fan base.
• FC St. Pauli has declined to comment on the incident as Irvine, recovering from a foot operation, says he hopes the matter is resolved and is prioritizing his rehab and family.