Adrian Maleika: Anniversary of first German football hooligan fatality

The anniversary of the death of Adrian Maleika is being observed, marking 44 years since the 16-year-old Werder Bremen supporter died following a violent attack. On October 16, 1982, Maleika was traveling with other Bremen fans to a DFB-Pokal match against Hamburger SV at the Volksparkstadion when his group was attacked by rival fans.

Maleika succumbed to his injuries, which were caused by a stone striking his head, the following day. His death is recognized as the first fatality resulting from hooligan violence in German football. The incident significantly increased awareness of stadium violence and contributed to the establishment of the Hamburg Fanprojekt in 1983. A memorial plaque at the Volksparkstadion serves as a reminder of the tragedy and a call for peaceful coexistence.