DFL Strongly Condemns Football League Riots

The German Football League (DFL) and the German Football Federation (DFB) have issued strong condemnations following riots that broke out during a second-division match between Dynamo Dresden and Hertha Berlin on April 4, 2026.

The incidents occurred at the Rudolf-Harbig-Stadium, where violence between supporters led to a temporary suspension of the game. The DFL stated on April 6, 2026, that such actions are detrimental to the sport and the culture of its supporters.

Match Disruptions and Fan Violence

The chaos began on the evening of April 4, 2026, when supporters from both clubs ignited pyrotechnics during the match. The situation escalated as fans from both teams climbed over stadium fences.

Masked Dynamo Dresden supporters ran along the edge of the pitch toward the section occupied by Hertha Berlin fans. Due to the clashes, referee Sven Jablonski halted the match and ordered both teams to return to their dressing rooms.

Police officers attempted to push the Dresden supporters back into their designated section, during which a Hertha Berlin flag was burned. According to police reports, away fans breached a barrier to enter the inner area of the stadium, a move that security staff failed to prevent. Approximately 60 individuals from the Dresden side also managed to get past the barriers.

Official Reactions

The DFL emphasized that the violence witnessed during the match does not represent the values of the sport’s community.

These riots have nothing to do with fan culture. For months, we have been advocating for sensible and reasonable security measures to strengthen safety in stadiums and preserve positive fan culture. These incidents endanger fan culture and the entire sport

German Football League (DFL)

DFB president Bernd Neuendorf also addressed the events, describing the scenes at Rudolf-Harbig-Stadium as completely unacceptable. He noted that violent offenders are tarnishing the unique fan culture found within German football.

Investigations and Aftermath

The Dresden Police Directorate announced on April 5, 2026, that it has opened more than a dozen investigations into the incidents. The DFB plans to launch its own preliminary probe involving both Dynamo Dresden and Hertha Berlin.

The DFL has called for a swift and thorough investigation, asserting that such a process is in the best interests of all 36 clubs within German professional football.

Despite the disruptions and the security breach, the match was eventually completed, with Hertha Berlin securing a 1-0 victory.