Fans of Holstein Kiel sparked controversy during their match against RB Leipzig by unveiling a provocative banner aimed at Jurgen Klopp, labeling him a ‘gravedigger of German football.
RB Leipzig arrived at the Holstein-Stadion with the goal of finally securing a Bundesliga victory.
After a commanding home win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the DFB-Pokal, Marco Rose’s team hoped for an easy three points against a lower-table opponent.
The match ended as expected: goals from Sesko in the 27th minute and a penalty by Andre Silva in the 69th minute broke Leipzig’s poor league run.
However, the real drama unfolded in the stands. Holstein fans displayed a banner featuring caricatures of prominent figures known for their opposition to Germany’s “50+1” rule, which limits investor control in football clubs.
The banner depicted Martin Kind (associated with Hannover), Dietmar Hopp (a major investor in Hoffenheim), and Oliver Mintzlaff (RB Leipzig’s supervisory board chairman) as cartoonish capitalists with a crosshair aimed at their heads, accompanied by the label “gravediggers of German football.” Above the banner was an additional cloth with the numbers “50+1.
Klopp, set to take over Red Bull’s entire football division starting January 1, 2025, was also included as a target on the banner.
Many fans see Klopp’s move as a betrayal of principles, aligning him with figures accused of destroying German football traditions.
The banner was removed just eight minutes into the match, but its impact lingered. Holstein Kiel president Steffen Schneekloth issued a strong statement after the game:
Targeting individuals is unacceptable. We strongly condemn this action. Our club stands for tolerance, openness, and respect.
We apologise to those defamed and will immediately investigate the incident. Appropriate measures will be taken as necessary.
This performance was not approved.”RB Leipzig head coach Marco Rose also commented:“I think it would be very wise if we stopped giving a platform to the opinions of foolish people.
