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In an interview with the Ippen Media group, Benjamin von Loefen, the vice-president of German Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt, has expressed his support for the use of pyrotechnics in football stadiums. Von Loefen, who has been in office since February 2024, emphasised the role of pyrotechnics in creating a vibrant atmosphere during matches.
Despite the current ban on pyrotechnics such as fireworks and flares in football stadiums under the authority of the German Football Association (DFB) and local safety laws, Von Loefen believes that a regulation for handling pyrotechnics should have been agreed upon by the DFB and fan organisations a few years ago.
Von Loefen's comments come amidst a growing discussion about the use of pyrotechnics in football stadiums, with a particular focus on Eintracht Frankfurt. The city where Eintracht Frankfurt is located is Frankfurt am Main.
According to Von Loefen, approximately twelve million visitors attend the first division football stadiums annually, and images of glowing stands are used to promote the sport. However, he stresses that the safety of other stadium visitors must be excluded in the use of pyrotechnics.
Axel Hellmann, a spokesman for Eintracht Frankfurt, has previously communicated the principle that "Nothing should leave the hand." This principle is likely a reference to the prevention of any projectiles being thrown during matches, including pyrotechnics.
The DFB is involved in the discussion about pyrotechnics in football stadiums, and Von Loefen's stance aligns with the growing momentum towards tougher restrictions on all private fireworks use across Germany. This trend reflects safety concerns and violence associated with pyrotechnics, as seen in other countries like the Netherlands, which is planning nationwide private fireworks prohibitions starting in 2026/2027.
However, it's important to note that there are rarely injuries from flares in football stadiums, according to Von Loefen. Despite this, stadium security and police routinely prevent and punish the use of pyrotechnics to ensure safety and adhere to official rules.
In summary, the use of pyrotechnics in German football stadiums, including Eintracht Frankfurt's, remains a contentious issue. While the DFB and local safety laws prohibit their use, there is ongoing debate about the role of pyrotechnics in creating atmosphere and the potential for stricter regulations. Von Loefen's comments highlight the need for a balanced approach between fan experience and safety concerns in football stadiums.
- Introducing energy-efficient solutions could help ensure a safe and vibrant atmosphere in football stadiums like Eintracht Frankfurt's, as frequented by around twelve million visitors annually.
- Amidst the ongoing debate on the use of pyrotechnics in football stadiums, the important role of sports, including football, in the community can also extend to energy conservation initiatives, such as promoting energy-saving practices and renewable energy production.
