A spectator died in the stands of the Leipzig Arena during the top Bundesliga game between RB Leipzig and Borussia Mönchengladbach. Those responsible for the host announced this during the game on Saturday evening.
During the first half, RB informed about the resuscitation of a person. The fans largely stopped their chants – and hardly resumed their cheering after the second half kicked off. Instead, they sang for the deceased and turned the stadium into a sea of lights with their cell phone lights.
“Unfortunately, we have to give you sad news. Unfortunately, this fan has died. We are with his relatives and his family,” said the stadium spokesman during half-time, according to the DPA news agency.
“Unfortunately we have to inform you that the person didn’t make it and died in the stadium,” RB Leipzig announced at the same time on X, formerly Twitter. “We are deeply hurt and all our thoughts at this difficult moment are with the family and all relatives. Rest in peace.” There was initially no information about the background to the medical emergency or the identity of the deceased viewer.
Not only the Leipzig fans, but also the visiting supporters from Mönchengladbach held back with their support, “since a member of the fan scene died in a traffic accident,” as Borussia Mönchengladbach announced.
In the end, RB Leipzig won the game 2-0 with goals from Xavi (14th minute) and Ppenda (57th) – but football became a minor matter on Saturday evening.
Editor’s note: This article was updated after the final whistle of the game.
Sources: RB Leipzig, Borussia Mönchengladbach, DPA news agency
