The Rhein-Neckar Löwen subsequently lost two points due to a violation of the anti-doping arbitration agreement in the handball Bundesliga.
As the HBL league association announced on Monday (March 2nd), the Lions encounter on matchday 22 on February 20th against TBV Lemgo Lippe (32:30) will be scored 0-2 points and 0-0 goals to the Lions’ disadvantage. The club announced legal action against the HBL decision.
Rhein-Neckar Löwen were informed by the HBL
“The Handball Bundesliga has informed us about the matter and the resulting decision by the HBL. We as Rhein-Neckar Löwen are taking legal action against this decision within the deadline set by the HBL. We therefore ask for your understanding that we will not comment on further action or the ongoing proceedings,” said Löwen managing director Holger Bachert.
According to the HBL, the reason for the rating is a formal violation of the anti-doping arbitration agreement. Accordingly, the Lions used a player who did not have a signed anti-doping arbitration agreement. Since January 1, 2026, the submission of such an agreement has been a mandatory requirement for eligibility to participate. If it is not presented, the game is considered lost according to the rules.
After delivery, an objection can be lodged against the decision with the 2nd Chamber of the DHB Federal Sports Court. Points will be deducted and transferred to TBV Lemgo Lippe only after the procedure has been completed.
