Germany to open talks with fans against violence

Published Nov. 14, 2011 1:08 p.m. ET

foxsports

German football authorities want to open talks with fans after violence in the top two divisions reached a 12-year high last season.

German Football Federation President Theo Zwanziger said after round table discussions with the German Football League (DFL) and Interior Ministry on Monday that the ''prevention of violence'' could be achieved through ''fan projects and education.''

Zwanziger adds that ''clubs have to take on responsibility for their fans.''

Pyrotechnics will remain banned, but a ban on selling alcohol in stadiums was ruled out.

Interior Minister Hans-Peter Friedrich says ''dialogue with fans is key,'' while DFL President Reinhard Rauball believes that ''it's important to talk to the fans and not about the fans.''