Split Decision | Heidelberg court issues ruling in case of Roger Wittmann versus Hoffenheim | OneFootball

After hearing oral arguments in the case of controversial agent Roger Wittmann’s lawsuit against TSG 1899 Hoffenheim last Friday, a regional court in Heidelberg has issued a ruling. The decision amounts to a draw between Wittmann and his co-plaintiff Dirk Mack in their lawsuit against the Bundesliga club. A stadium ban for both controversial figures has been overturned, but will still be barred from club headquarters and the training ground.

The court ruled that Hoffenheim’s PreZero Arena constitutes a public space. The fact that Wittmann insulted club figures proved insufficient grounds to keep the duo out. When it comes to the club’s headquarters, however, the court upheld Hoffenheim’s decision to protect its privately owned space from a potentially hostile party.

Hoffenheim and the two plaintiffs might consider the ruling unsatisfactory and may still appeal the result. Hoffenheim have issued comment on the matter. An appeal from the club’s side will be considered. TSG board members Dr. Markus Schütz and Jörg Albrecht – both targets of Wittmann’s verbal abuse – have issued separate statements.

“Our values are non-negotiable,” Schütz’s statement read “More important than anything else, this includes treating each other with respect. Anyone who grossly insults others or addresses a person not as a human being but as a ‘monkey’ crosses a line that we will not tolerate either on or off the pitch.”

“Given its special responsibility in the education of children and young people, TSG Hoffenheim sees itself as a club that rejects any form of disrespect and defamation,” Albrecht added. “Our firmly established values form the basis for our actions in all area, from youth development to professional football to the club environment. That will not change.”

GGFN | Peter Weis