Fc Schalke 04 has launched a member survey. In addition to the topic of spin-offs, it is also about the legalization of pyrotechnics.

The topic of pyrotechnics in soccer stadiums has been controversially discussed for many years. The use of the illuminated ammunition always results in atmospheric images in the arenas of the Bundesliga. This is also the case with FC Schalke 04.

However, it is also undisputed that the flares, which have a temperature of well over 1,000 degrees, can be very dangerous – and pose a considerable health hazard if they are flared uncontrollably.

Only recently at the derby against BVB (2:2) there was almost a catastrophe. During the block storm of the Dortmund Ultras before the game, a thrown Bengalo got caught in the hood of a photographer’s jacket. The jacket caught fire immediately. Miraculously, the man was unharmed. He later filed a complaint. At the same game, however, a woman was injured by pyrotechnics in the eye and eyelid and had to be treated in hospital.

For the Ultras, soccer without pyrotechnics is unimaginable. They have been campaigning for legalization for many years. And at the latest since the end of the ghost games during the Corona pandemic, the fans have also been igniting pyrotechnics with increasing abandon in all stadiums of the republic. In the meantime, the fines for the clubs are piling up and in some cases are already in six figures.

Template for Schalke general meeting

In its member survey ahead of the general meeting on June 17, which will also address the issue of spin-offs, among other things, S04 now wants to know whether it should initiate a legalization of pyrotechnics. “Schalke 04, together with other clubs, should initiate a discussion on whether there is a possibility in the medium to long term to use pyrotechnics within a controlled framework and legally,” reads a draft resolution of the club.

There is already a similar project in France. There, the burning of pyrotechnics will soon be permitted in a predefined stadium area during a three-year test phase. However, this must be registered by the fans in advance and approved by the authorities on a case-by-case basis.