Dortmund Rewards Phone-Free Fans

Borussia Dortmund is introducing an innovative "fan mode" app to combat excessive mobile phone usage in the stands. This initiative stems from a survey indicating that fans are increasingly frustrated by selfies, streaming, and social media during games. The club aims to enhance the live match atmosphere by rewarding supporters who minimize their phone activity.

Fans who voluntarily participate in the "fan mode" app will start with a set number of points. These points will decrease based on how often their phone is unlocked during match play, excluding the half-time interval. As an incentive, participants can earn rewards such as signed club jerseys and gift cards for club merchandise. Dortmund CEO Carsten Cramer emphasized the irreplaceable nature of shared live experiences, highlighting the importance of fan engagement.

This move by Dortmund aligns with a growing trend among German football clubs to address technology's impact on the fan experience. Other clubs like Hertha Berlin have implemented restrictions on video productions, and Dynamo Dresden and Hansa Rostock have previously warned vlogging spectators against public distribution of recorded content. These clubs are taking measures to preserve the atmosphere and authenticity of live sporting events.