Lower Saxony derby
Hanover in Braunschweig: risky game on probation
October 24, 2025 – 4:48 p.mReading time: 2 minutes
The derby between Braunschweig and Hanover is under special observation. Security measures have been stepped up following previous riots.
Fans, politicians and the police are watching this game: The Lower Saxony derby between Eintracht Braunschweig and Hannover 96 on Sunday (1:30 p.m./Sky) is subject to stricter security precautions – and under special observation. Unlike last season, this time 2,100 away fans are allowed into the sold-out Eintracht Stadium with a total of 21,800 spectators.
Lower Saxony’s Interior Minister Daniela Behrens (SPD) emphasized to the editorial network Germany at the beginning of the week: “It is now solely in the hands of the clubs and the fans whether these measures will also lead in practice to a derby without violent escapades and dangerous pyrotechnic attacks on peaceful visitors.”
Eintracht Braunschweig rejected the police request for personalized tickets. The association referred to organizational challenges with admission and data protection concerns. Instead, after discussions with the Braunschweig Police Department, the club presented an improved security concept at the beginning of October.
Admission controls are being tightened and a safety net is hanging over the guest block. As with previous derbies, there will be no alcohol service in the stadium.
Braunschweig’s police vice president and head of operations, Uwe Lange, clearly warned: “If there are riots in the stadium despite these stricter security measures, further measures will have to be taken in the future. This can then range from personalized ticketing to the exclusion of away fans.”
At previous derbies there were repeated riots and the setting off of pyrotechnics. The number of visiting fans was therefore significantly reduced last season, which was met with criticism from supporters of both clubs. More than 2,000 police officers were deployed at the last derby in March. According to the Interior Ministry, the costs amounted to 1.735 million euros.
In terms of sport, the Braunschweigers go into the game with new self-confidence. After four defeats, they won 2-1 at Fortuna Düsseldorf last week. Eintracht coach Heiner Backhaus says: “It would be a lie if you didn’t feel that it was a special game.”
Hannover 96, on the other hand, is currently struggling with a form crisis after a strong start to the season with four wins in four games. The team only got one win from the last five games. Last matchday, Hannover lost 3-0 at home to Schalke 04.
The last Hanover victory in Braunschweig was on February 6, 2021 (2:1). In the three following away games at Eintracht, Hannover remained goalless.