“Have a responsibility to our fans”

Managing Director Alexander Wehrle has defended the strict procedure for ticket allocation for the future home games of Bundesliga club 1. FC Köln. “We simply have a responsibility for the many, many FC fans and season ticket holders who are vaccinated and who also expect us to find solutions, to take measures so that we can welcome 50,000 fans in the stadium again in the future.” said Wehrle at RTL / ntv.

Cologne is planning the first home game on Sunday (5.30 p.m. / DAZN) against Hertha BSC with 16,500 fans in the stadium, but allows almost only those who have been vaccinated or recovered in the arena. Only 1000 children and adolescents are admitted with a negative test. The FC had to accept massive criticism for this “2G regulation”.

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Unvaccinated season ticket holders could pause their ticket and would be compensated by the association, said Wehrle. The FC also endeavors to implement vaccination offers and to create further incentives. There will be two vaccination stations on the Vorwiesen and Jahnwiesen on Sunday and probably also on other match days.

“Sponsors have participated, there is a surprise box. We will provide a merchandising voucher,” said Wehrle: “Because only with a significant quota will we manage to break the path towards a changed normality. And that’s why we advertise for vaccination. “