Town requests removal of rainbow flag by Backnang-Fan - WFV reacts to the demand
In the world of football, the display of the rainbow flag has become a divisive issue, as demonstrated during the Euro 2020 match between Germany and Hungary. This controversy has once again surfaced, this time at an Oberliga match between TSG Backnang and Türkspor Neckarsulm.
The incident was first reported by the "Heilbronner Stimme". A fan of TSG Backnang, who considers the rainbow colors a sign against homophobia and racism, planned to display a rainbow flag at the match. However, a steward of the home team asked the fan to remove the flag before kick-off.
The supporter, in an interview with our newspaper, recounted his discussion with the steward, who accused him of lying and claimed that the flag was not a fan flag. The reason for the steward's request remains unclear.
Cumali Ardin, a board member of Türkspor Neckarsulm, stated that he was unaware of the incident. He emphasised that the club generally tries to keep political matters out of football, seeking as little political influence as possible. He does not view the rainbow flag as a political symbol but wants to avoid making a big issue out of this unknown incident.
The WFV (German Football Association) has contacted Türkspor Neckarsulm and suggested a club-internal investigation of the incident. The WFV spokesperson stated that they fully support the proper display of a fence flag with rainbow motive.
Alexander Wehrle, VfB Boss and CSD Patron in Stuttgart, reported the incident to the Baden-Württemberg Football Association (WFV). Subsequent criticism was directed towards UEFA's decision to thwart plans to illuminate the Allianz Arena in rainbow colors during the Euro 2020 match, due to being a politically and religiously neutral organization.
Critics spoke of a discriminatory law and an infringement on the rights of LGBTQIA+ people in Hungary during the Euro 2020 match. The Backnang fan, however, sees the rainbow colors as a symbol of inclusivity and welcoming in football.
Türkspor Neckarsulm has not yet responded to our newspaper's inquiry regarding the incident. The supporter complied with the request reluctantly and expressed confusion about the incident in 2025.
The WFV's involvement and the supporter's decision to report the incident to the Baden-Württemberg Football Association indicate a growing awareness and support for the proper display of rainbow flags in football. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how Türkspor Neckarsulm will address this issue.
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