The DFB Cup derby between SV Waldhof Mannheim and 1. FC Kaiserslautern was marred by fan violence on Friday evening. According to the Mannheim Police Headquarters, the incident resulted in several officers being injured and multiple fans being arrested.
The Carl-Benz Stadium was sold out for the game, drawing around 23,500 spectators, including an estimated 3,500 visiting supporters. The match, which started at 6 p.m., initially proceeded without significant disruption during the pre-game phase; a march involving roughly 2,000 supporters of 1. FC Kaiserslautern from Ludwigshafen-Mitte station to Mannheim Central Station reported no major issues.
However, during the match, fans repeatedly set off large amounts of pyrotechnics. After the end of the regular playing time, a mob formed on the pitch, and the aggressive atmosphere quickly spread to the stands. Mannheim fans threw cups towards the 1. FC Kaiserslautern bench, which prompted visiting fans to shoot rockets towards the main stands. Subsequently, Mannheim fans invaded the pitch, forcing police to use “compulsory application” to push people back into the home section. Police indicated that their forces had been targeted with fireworks and rockets from the home block beforehand.
In total, 33 federal police officers and two police officers from Baden-Württemberg sustained minor injuries. The restart of the game was temporarily delayed, but no further incidents were reported once play resumed. Following the game, a choreography in the guest fan block caught fire, which was extinguished by the Mannheim Fire Department.
The police have launched investigations into offenses including disturbing the peace, assault, violent attacks on police officers, and violations of explosive materials laws, leading to the provisional arrest of several football fans. A total of 85 people required medical attention, with eight being taken to the hospital. Approximately 1,400 officers were involved in the operation. The overall operation manager, Michael Reichert, stated that, “The intensive preparation of all involved institutions and the close cooperation of all participants paid off. Our tactical concept worked perfectly.” During the event, road closures and public transport disruptions occurred around the stadium.
