Dispute over flags in Gladbach: fans demand view of the game back!

Dispute over flags in Gladbach: fans demand view of the game back!

In the north curve of the Borussia Park, there is currently a vehement dispute over the swiveling of flags during the games. While younger fans, in particular the ultras, vehemently occur for the consistent swivel, older supporters often find this as a strong visual impairment. This topic of conflict was also addressed at the annual general meeting of the association. Managing Director Markus Aretz said that the problem has been known for weeks and months and that numerous talks with fans and the board of the fan project have already been held. Aretz emphasized that the north curve was a lively area where sang and dancing and that the swiveling of flags had become more important nationwide. The association follows the approach to find a solution by dialogue among fans instead of making decisions prescribed from above.

On May 14th, an evening event will therefore take place in the Gladbach fan house, in which everyone involved should have their say. The topic is not only of local interest, but also reflects a trend in society as a whole. Numerous football clubs fight with similar problems with regard to fan culture and the integration of different fan interests.

petition to reduce flags

Another aspect of the conflict are the latest developments related to a petition initiated by a fan named Mr. Nordkurve. This petition, which can be found on the "Change.org" platform, requires a reduction in the north curve to reduce the flags. The petition had already won almost 2400 supporters by March 26, 2025. The aim of this initiative is to find a balance between passionate fan support and the view of the game. Especially in the blocks 15, 16 and 17 are increasingly being complained about visual disabilities by flags.

In addition, notes were distributed on March 7, who asked the flags of swiveling fans to be more reserved in penalty area scenes. These actions show that part of the fan base is actively looking for solutions to avoid conflicts and promote a harmonious stadium experience.

the wide context of the fan culture

The dispute over the flags is not to be considered isolated. The fan culture in German football is characterized by a variety of conflicts and dialogues, especially between Ultras and the older catch generations. According to Deutschlandfunk there is a increasing need for communication between fans and club management in order to reduce tensions. Frequent riots, such as those observed in the past in Rheinische derby between Borussia Mönchengladbach and the 1. FC Köln, illustrate the risks associated with the intensity of fan culture.

The current discussion in the Gladbach north curve shows how important it is to find solutions that take into account the needs of all fans. With the upcoming event in the fan house, the club seems to be ready to take all voices seriously and to work on a mutually acceptable solution. The goal is to ensure a pleasant stadium experience for all visitors in the upcoming Bundesliga season.