Fortune's ghost-themed game on hold; DEG in off-season pause
In a largely post-pandemic Germany, Düsseldorf has returned to normal with no specific COVID-19 restrictions currently mandated for events or professional sports. This positive development allows local teams such as Fortuna Düsseldorf (football) and the DEG (ice hockey) to operate under usual conditions in their venues.
However, the decision to allow spectators at Union Berlin's home game against Bayern Munich has far-reaching consequences for Fortuna Düsseldorf. The team, currently embroiled in a relegation battle, will have to play important home games, including against Paderborn, in empty stadiums.
Fortuna's CEO, Thomas Röttgermann, has expressed his disappointment with the situation, stating that the health of the population comes first, but finding it unacceptable that Union Berlin can have spectators while Fortuna cannot. He plans to contact the DFL about this discrepancy.
Röttgermann also highlighted the difficulties in rescheduling events due to the occupancy of event venues. Michael Brill, managing director of D.Live, estimates that around 38 events in Düsseldorf are affected by the measures, with up to 350,000 visitors having already purchased tickets.
The DEG's press department commented on the DEL's decision with a mix of sentiment, stating "Separated by colours - united in corona" and expressing sadness with "#DEG". The preservation of the functionality of the healthcare system is the top priority in these measures, as Health Minister Karl-Josef Laumann's decree, which applies currently with no room for interpretation, is aimed at containing the virus spread.
It's important to note that the DEL has already canceled the 2019/2020 season due to bans in various federal states preventing events with more than 1000 spectators. EHC Red Bull Munich, along with Adler Mannheim, Straubing Tigers, and Eisbären Berlin, will represent the DEL in the Champions Hockey League.
Despite the challenges, Fortuna remains confident that decisions will be made in a sustainable and balanced manner. The team, along with the DEG, continues to prioritise the health and safety of their fans, players, and staff, and looks forward to the day when they can once again fill their stadiums with supporters.
[1] German Foreign Office travel advice [3] German National Tourist Board travel advice
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