German police recorded 1,446 injuries at football matches during the 2025-26 season, according to figures released by the German Press Agency (DPA) on Friday.
The statistics cover all professional and amateur matches across the country, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in German football stadiums. The data was compiled by federal and state police forces.
A file photograph accompanying the report showed VfB Stuttgart supporters igniting pyrotechnics in the away section ahead of a Bundesliga match against FC Augsburg. The image, credited to Harry Langer of DPA, illustrates the persistent issue of pyrotechnic use despite strict regulations.
German authorities have long struggled to curb the use of flares, smoke bombs, and other pyrotechnics in stadiums, which frequently lead to burns, respiratory issues, and crowd-control injuries. The 1,446 figure includes injuries to spectators, stewards, and police officers.
The German Football League (DFL) and the German Football Association (DFB) have implemented stricter penalties and increased surveillance in recent years, but the injury toll remains significant.
