Watzke: Hooligans are society´s problem

Borussia Dortmund president Hans-Joachim Watzke says football riots are a problem of society and has called upon politicians to act.

According to German police statistics, acts of violence by fans in the country have increased by 120 percent during the last 12 years, but Watzke disagrees with suggestions clubs should take full responsibility for the problem.

“The issue is not within football itself,” the 53-year-old told Sky Sport News.

“It is a society problem. There are more injuries (occurring due to riots) at Oktoberfest.”

“Pyrotechnics are an absolute no-go, because they are simply too dangerous. That is a fact. We are constantly in controversial and constructive discussions with our fans. We try to convince our fans.”

Watzke then took time to reflect on Dortmund’s development in the league and commented on the Bundesliga title holders’ goals for the season.

“We are satisfied with the draw (against Bayern Munich), because we showed that we can keep up with them,” he said.

“However, we should not just talk about Dortmund and Munich. Bayern lost two points of their lead over Bayer Leverkusen. The league is not completely lacking tension.”