After the match against Mainz, BVB President Dr Reinhard Rauball gave his views to sky on the tragic accidents that occurred in the stadium during the game and paid his respects to the relatives and to the spectators.

Dr. Reinhard Rauball: “On behalf of Borussia Dortmund, I express my sincere condolences to the families of those affected and my deepest sympathy. Our thoughts are with them. We are also keeping our fingers crossed for all other patients, as well as for those who are so passionate about football.

In the stands I got wind of the situation fairly early on as to what had happened. From that moment on, the match was very much in the background and I could no longer properly concentrate on it. The reaction of the fans was extremely spontaneous and something that I have never experienced before. I can only compliment all the fans who demonstrated their grief and respect in this way and so unanimously. I tip my hat to all the Mainz supporters who also showed their deepest sympathy and support. I am hugely respectful of those who waved their scarves at the end of the game and for singing You’ll never walk alone. It shows how deeply rooted concepts like honour and respect for others are and can be expressed just like that. For that I take my hat off to them. (djg)