East German clubs demand: Don't always punish pyrotechnics

The burning of pyrotechnics in soccer stadiums should no longer be punished under certain circumstances, according to a group of traditional clubs from the east of Germany. "We demand a consistent abolition of the punishment under association law for the use of pyrotechnics that are not misused and their immediate suspension," it said in a statement posted on its website by second division club Hertha BSC, among others.

The statement was also signed by third division clubs Dynamo Dresden, FC Erzgebirge Aue, Hansa Rostock and Energie Cottbus as well as fan organizations of these clubs. Bundesliga club Union Berlin and 1. FC Magdeburg did not take part, although the fans' side was represented by the Wuhlesyndikat 2002 and Block U Magdeburg. Numerous other clubs from the regions also took part.

Clubs see no effect of the penalties

In detail, the clubs criticized the fact that the penalties were increasingly causing economic problems for the clubs concerned and worsening their competitiveness. The development of the penalties is changing perceptions, so that the positive influence of pyrotechnics on the atmosphere in the stadiums or the non-existent influence on the game is not taken into account.

The increasing perception of safety in the use of pyrotechnics and the lack of injuries are being ignored by the associations, they said. The increasing penalties had not led to less use of pyrotechnics.