In October, Borussia Dortmund took a step that ran against both contemporary football culture and everyday habits: the Bundesliga club urged supporters to keep their phones out of sight.
Quick facts
- Before last month’s Bundesliga fixture against Eintracht Frankfurt, Dortmund introduced the initiative at the 82,000-seat Westfalenstadion.
- Fans could activate “fan mode” in the Dortmund app and earn points by avoiding smartphone use during the match.
- Rewards included signed shirts and vouchers for the club shop.
The initiative may appear unusual, especially to supporters outside Germany, but it has received a positive response domestically. For many German fans, the atmosphere and shared experience of attending a match are still treated as central parts of the game.
Germany’s distinctive club-ownership model has played a major role in protecting that culture. Rules limiting outside investment by requiring member ownership have helped maintain stadium traditions that have faded in other countries.
Because supporters have influence over key club decisions, safeguarding the live match experience remains a priority.
Season tickets also remain comparatively affordable. Bayern Munich, Germany’s reigning champions, offer a season ticket from 180 euros ($200) for all 17 Bundesliga home fixtures.
At Arsenal, the English champions, the lowest-priced season ticket costs £978 ($1,309) for 19 league matches at home.
Dortmund are not alone in attempting to limit phone use inside grounds. Hertha Berlin and Dynamo Dresden, both in the second tier, have also brought in restrictions this season.
The measures at Hertha and Dynamo have chiefly been aimed at stopping the growing practice of influencers recording content at stadiums for commercial gain. They are also intended to protect the sense of being part of the crowd.
Sports bodies worldwide have faced a wider debate over influencers at major events. Some view them as valuable publicity, while others believe they undermine the event itself and can conflict with high-value broadcasting deals.
