Serious abuse allegations at BVB: Ricken responds | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund is under pressure following serious allegations of abuse against a former employee. CEO Lars Ricken announces comprehensive clarification and support for those affected.

Following the serious allegations of abuse against a former employee of Borussia Dortmund, Sports CEO Lars Ricken has now spoken out. In an interview with Sport Bild, he discussed the shock within the club and the measures that have been initiated.

“The allegations have massively shaken the entire club,” Ricken said, emphasizing that BVB is doing everything to support the alleged victims. The club has “commissioned an external auditing company to review all hints and incidents” and additionally set up a whistleblower system on its homepage.

Ricken made it clear: “We condemn any form of sexual assault; such behavior has no place at BVB or in society.” The club will support the investigation “with all available resources, documents, and access.”

The allegations against the former employee apparently date back decades. As early as 2010, a corresponding case was reported to BVB, but it could not be substantiated due to a lack of evidence. At that time, the accused employee denied the allegations, and the affected player did not file a criminal complaint.

Abuse Allegations Shake BVB

In 2023, another tip was received through the club's own reporting system. This is also said to relate to an incident from long ago, which “is attributable to the private life of the former employee.” The club reacted immediately and terminated the existing employment relationship with the man.

In a statement, the club explained that the employee also fully denied the new allegations. Since the events are said to have occurred in the 1970s and 1980s, the matter could not be clearly resolved this time either. Nevertheless, BVB “acted promptly” to take consequences.

In an official statement, Borussia Dortmund also emphasized that they have “at no time made any financial or comparable compensations.” The club now wants to fully clarify the allegations and support those affected as best as possible.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.