Angry Heidenheim fans chase Augsburg players after supporter’s serious fall

1. FC Heidenheim secured their first points of the Bundesliga season, as they beat FC Augsburg 2-1 at Voith-Arena on Saturday.

However, it wasn’t the football that dominated headlines after the game, but a serious incident involving a fan.

During the match, a Heidenheim supporter fell from the stands and sustained a serious injury before being taken to the hospital by helicopter.

After the final whistle, emotions ran high, with several Heidenheim fans storming the pitch and chasing Augsburg players.

“I heard from the fans that after the 2–0 goal, a supporter apparently fell over the fence, hit his head, and was unconscious for a long time,” Heidenheim coach Frank Schmidt told Sky Germany after the game.

“It’s football, it’s important – but not the most important thing. I’ve been saying that my whole life.

“I’ve got my fingers crossed (for the injured person, editor's note). Before the game, we hoped we could win it, but now it’s about a person’s health. I’d gladly trade the win, but that’s not possible. I hope, and I know, that he’s in good hands – the hospital is right across the street. Now we’re all keeping our fingers crossed that the young man gets back on his feet.”

The club later posted about the incident on X:

“There are more important things than football! Shortly before the end of today’s match, one of our FCH fans fell from the fence of the East Stand into the inner area. He was stabilized in the Voith Arena and then transported to the hospital.”

Regarding the chaotic scenes with angry Heidenheim supporters chasing Augsburg players, Schmidt admitted he didn’t know the exact cause:

“But if fans see one of their own lying unconscious and fighting for his life, then emotions run high. I’m glad we intervened quickly. This wasn’t a normal situation; it was an exceptional one. I think it’s only human that everyone would want to take care of their friend – but we could have done without the way things played out after the game.”

Augsburg goalkeeper Finn Dahmen shared his perspective with Sky Germany.

“We had a goal kick. I didn’t know someone had been injured, so I shouted loudly ‘give me the ball.’ I didn’t insult anyone and had no idea someone was hurt. I wish the injured person all the best.”

Schmidt even had to intervene himself amid the chaos to protect the Augsburg players:

“I had to step in because they had completely different emotions going through their heads and probably didn’t even know what was happening. I think we intervened decisively – and nothing happened,” he said.

Schmidt added that it was difficult to reflect on the sporting side of things:

“From a footballing perspective it was very important; we’re not completely free yet, but the belief is back and we put in a great performance. But right now, there are other things on my mind.”