Domestic football derbies have one more scandal. This time it doesn’t affect the major Viennese clubs Rapid and Austriathis time it’s about Upper Austria. Before the 21st round of the Bundesliga on Sunday, the penultimate before the division of the table, a video from the VIP club of the SV Ried for a stir.
In the clip, which only lasts a few seconds, is the president of SV Ried, Thomas Gahleitnerto see how he had a burning one at an advanced hour and in an exuberant mood SHOT-Scarf holds. The video is already circulating on social media, and there had previously been rumors about the scenes, like this ÖON report.
“Football lives from emotions and passions – and also from a rivalry that is lived with a wink,” Gahleitner apologized in a first statement. “I very much regret that my gesture as seen on the video gave a completely wrong impression,” said the Ried president, who emphasized that representatives from both fan camps were present and that a “humorous and relaxed” exchange of blows took place.
“Misinterpreted”
“Viewed in isolation,” said the official, the scenes could be “misinterpreted.” There were no disrespectful or derogatory signals. He stands for “fair and respectful” treatment.
The game in mid-February ended 1-1 with a late penalty for the guests from Linz. Next week (March 4, 8:30 p.m.) Ried and LASK will meet again – this time in the ÖFB Cup semi-finals.