Insulted by spectator

Racism scandal during Liefering defeat

A spectator insulted a Liefering player in Bregenz, after which the match was abandoned.

(Bild: GEPA)

In sporting terms, the second division match between Bregenz and Liefering had nothing out of the ordinary to offer. The Ländle team deservedly led 2:0 until shortly before the end, but suddenly a Bregenz fan made racist remarks towards a young bull. Liefering then left the pitch in unison.

Until shortly before the final whistle, the second division match between Bregenz and Liefering seemed to be decided. The Vorarlberg side had a deserved 2:0 lead, while the Jungbullen were not playing well. Then Liefering's Gaoussou Diakite was fouled off the ball. As a result, there was a scuffle between the Malian and Bregenz's Marco Rottensteiner. Diakite was subsequently shown yellow for the foul and for pushing Rottensteiner, which led to Liefering's second sending-off after Tim Paumgartner had already been sent off early after two fouls.

Suddenly, a racist shout against a Liefering player from a fan who had already been identified came from the barely filled stands. Coach Daniel Beichler called his boys to him and left the pitch with them.

"The only thing I want to say about this is that not just one player, but several boys were racially insulted," said the head coach.

Liefering coach Daniel Beichler.

(Bild: GEPA)

The stadium announcer immediately distanced himself from the racist remarks and spoke of a "confused" spectator. "We don't tolerate any racist abuse here", said the stadium announcer. Beichler then spent several minutes talking to referee Julian Schnur, who then blew the final whistle. The case will be referred to the Bundesliga and will be deemed abandoned until then.