Dortmund supporters’ group criticises Nmecha’s celebration

A Dortmund supporters’ group has criticised Felix Nmecha’s celebration after his two goals in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Elversberg. The midfielder pointed skywards, then mimed taking a crown from his head and placing it on the ground. Nmecha, who joined Borussia Dortmund from Wolfsburg in 2023, said his gesture had been misunderstood.

The group objected to what it saw as a reference to “The King’s Return”, a campaign by Ballers in God. It said the campaign discriminates against gay and transgender people, describes abortion as “Satan’s plan” and conflicts with the values of tolerance and respect for diversity it associates with Dortmund. Citing a recent investigation by German broadcaster ARD, the supporters said the campaign advocates “extremely conservative positions” on homosexuality and transgender identity.

Nmecha responded that his celebration was not intended to promote either himself or an organisation. In a message, he said that laying down his “crown” was about placing it before the soon-coming King and pointing to Jesus, whom he described as his hope and strength. He also said his message was not meant to encourage hostility towards people with different beliefs or backgrounds. “My message has never been about promoting intolerance, discrimination or hate in any form,” he wrote.

Ballers in God defended the initiative, saying it was encouraged by player-led movements expressing their faith. It said it wanted to share its hope while showing “love and respect towards everyone”, including those who do not share its beliefs, and that its focus remained on pointing people to Jesus with grace and love.

The Dortmund supporters’ group said it opposed religious networks that, under the guise of faith, denigrate or exclude people because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, way of life or personal choices. Dortmund said on Sunday that it understood the supporters’ concerns and would speak to Nmecha. The club also said it took the needs of its fanbase seriously, along with the questions and discussions prompted by media coverage.

In 2024, Sam Morsy, then Ipswich captain, said he did not wear a rainbow armband because of his religious beliefs. The situations underline how religious convictions and messages of inclusion can come into tension in football, while differing in their circumstances.