Borussia Dortmund handed €75,000 fine for COVID-19 rule violations

Borussia Dortmund have been handed a fine of 75,000 euros by the DFL for the violation of COVID-19 health and safety protocols. The violation occurred when the Black and Yellows were on their way back to Dortmund after defeating arch rivals Schalke 4-0 on Saturday evening. The DFL said in a statement that the BVB players were not wearing masks or following social distancing rules while inside the team bus. While the team bus was was greeted by 150-200 celebrating supporters, many of whom were not adhering to the COVID-19 protocols either.

Several Borussia Dortmund players filmed videos of the reception they received from the fans on their return to Dortmund after the derby. The players also celebrated with the fans, but without leaving the bus at any time.

The DFL adds that while it understands the special nature of the Revierderby, it is still the clubs’ responsibility to control and monitor compliance with the regulations.

Borussia Dortmund have already issued an apology for the incident, and promised to get in touch with the police to ensure that such incidents do not happen again in the future. Der BVB have five days to lodge an appeal. But according to Kicker, the club has already accepted the fine handed out by the DFL.

In an interview with Sport1 on Sunday, Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke apologised for the incident and said that the club have a responsibility to follow the protocols. But he also pointed to the fact that none of the players got off the bus to celebrate with the fans.