Borussia Dortmund president Hans-Joachim Watzke has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding midfielder Felix Nmecha’s recent goal celebration, which has been linked to the ‘Ballers in God’ network. Watzke confirmed he has spoken directly with Nmecha, suggesting he reconsider the gesture to avoid division among the club’s fanbase.
Controversial Celebration Details
The incident occurred after Nmecha scored a brace against SV Elversberg. His celebration involved removing an imaginary crown from his head and placing it on the pitch. This gesture has been associated with the ‘Ballers in God’ network and its ‘The King’s Return’ campaign. LGBTQ+ organisations have classified ‘Ballers in God’ as “Christian fundamentalist,” leading to strong criticism, including from Borussia Dortmund’s Supporters Council.
Nmecha himself took to Instagram to clarify what he described as “misunderstandings.” He stated that his celebration was not intended to promote himself or any organisation, but rather to “lay my ‘crown’ before the soon coming King and pointing to Jesus, my hope and strength!” He added that his message has “never been about promoting intolerance, discrimination, or hate in any form.”
Club’s Position and Discussion
Speaking on the “colourFIELD tell-a-vision” podcast, Watzke acknowledged the fan department’s right to raise the issue and stressed that the club takes it seriously. While expressing his support for Nmecha as a person and his right to express Christian faith, Watzke highlighted the club’s concern regarding the specific crown gesture.
“I like Felix Nmecha very much. We have a very, very good relationship and speak to each other frequently. As a practising Catholic, I am also the last person who would want to forbid someone from praying. That is not what this is about at all. That is perfectly legitimate,” Watzke stated. He clarified that the issue lies with the crown gesture itself, as Borussia Dortmund is concerned about being associated with ‘Ballers in God’.
Watzke noted that research indicates parts of the religious group hold views that are homophobic and anti-LGBTQ+, and describe abortion as “Satan’s plan.” He added, “Borussia Dortmund’s code of core values and the fundamental outlook of ‘Ballers in God’ are not entirely compatible. That is why people at our club, particularly in the fan department, have the impression that an attempt is being made to establish a link with ‘Ballers in God’. We don’t want that in our home.”
Watzke confirmed his direct conversation with Nmecha. “I told him: ‘Felix, if you feel that it is dividing the fans, perhaps you might also come to the realisation that you should stop doing it because it is causing division.’ He wants to think about it. We had a wonderful conversation with him. We spent an hour on a video call. That is where things stand now, and he will give it some thought. I hope we can find a sensible solution,” Watzke explained.