Hertha boss: Fan protests against HSV went “far too long”

Fans caused a disruption

Hertha managing director Thomas E. Herrich criticized the length of the fan protest at the game against Hamburger SV, but also showed understanding for the concerns of his club’s supporters. “I completely understand the criticism. It is completely legitimate to take actions and express criticism. The manner is different. That took too long for me,” said the 59-year-old after the second division game on Saturday evening. “That disrupted the flow of the game.”

The protest, which also took place in shorter form in many other stadiums, is directed against the investor plans of the German Football League (DFL). The game, which ended 2-1 (0-0) for HSV in the Olympic Stadium, was about to be abandoned when countless tennis balls were thrown onto the field from the Hertha curve in the second half. The game was interrupted for more than 30 minutes. According to the club, Hertha did not vote in favor of the planned entry of an investor into the DFL during the vote in December.

Herrich fears financial consequences for the cash-strapped club after the protest. “This will result in a severe penalty,” he said. They now want to talk to the fans. “We will always engage in dialogue and we will do so now,” he said. Sports director Benjamin Weber praised referee Daniel Schlager’s calm reaction. Hertha’s defeat had nothing to do with the long interruption.

To home page