HSV condemns homophobic banner and takes action

After a homophobic banner was displayed in the North Stand during the second half of yesterday's HSV home match against F.C. Hansa Rostock (24 July, 0:1), clarification work on this unacceptable behaviour began immediately. In the first instance, the club distanced itself from the discriminatory content on the club's own social media channels and referred very clearly to the diversity that is lived. Now the incident, which was initiated and implemented by individuals, is to be dealt with in a consistent and clear manner. "Despite our many efforts and projects in prevention work over the past years, we have to realise that discriminatory behaviour is still possible and that we as HSV must continue to stand up for and fight with all our strength and conviction for a Volksparkstadion free of discrimination," explains Chief Culture & Marketing Officer (CMO) Cornelius Göbel. 

In order to guarantee the necessary clarification, HSV will view all relevant video recordings in the coming days and summon clearly identifiable individuals to a stadium ban meeting. Göbel underlines in this context: "Despite the incident, we are fully capable of acting and will proceed according to our clearly regulated stadium regulations, which include an anti-discrimination paragraph." In addition, there will be a communicative exchange with the active fan scene. "We are convinced that, together with the active fan scene, the Supporters Club, the fan project and all stadium visitors, we can maintain the Volksparkstadion as a place of living diversity. For this, however, it is also important to show cohesion in the form of dialogue-oriented civil courage in the stands and throughout the stadium." 

The unforgivable incident has regrettably shown that even greater commitment is needed in this area. This will already be demonstrated - as has been planned for some time - at the next HSV home game against 1. FC Heidenheim (6 August, kick-off: 1 p.m.) with the "Welcoming Out" initiative and is to be further intensified in the coming weeks and months. Because: HSV condemns discriminatory behaviour of any kind and will continue to implement the zero-tolerance policy for offences with all consistency and severity. "Today, it is difficult for me to accept how the club's work in the area of anti-discrimination is being severely set back by the behaviour of individuals. Our HSV stands for variety, diversity, attitude and a clear edge. Yesterday, today and tomorrow," Göbel concludes.