October 25 – Bundesliga club Fortuna Düsseldorf have trialled the first match of their ‘Fortuna for All’ campaign, marking the beginning of a groundbreaking new initiative where fans can attend matches free of charge.
Unveiled at the end of the 2022/23 season, the ‘Fortuna for All’ campaign outlines the club’s ambitious plans to offer free admission to all spectators to all matches at the Merkur Spielarena, from hardcore season ticket holders and fan club members to occasional visitors and even away fans.
The campaign debut saw a capacity crowd witness a thrilling 4-goal comeback from the home side, as Düsseldorf overcame the odds in their 4-3 win over Kaiserslautern on matchday 10 of the Bundesliga 2 season.
The free ticket initiative was more than two times oversubscribed.
“We want to make it clear what Fortuna Düsseldorf stands for,” said club CEO Alexander Jobst. “With ‘Fortuna For All’, we’re doing things differently and breaking new ground.”
Following the release of the fixtures for the new season, Fortuna confirmed that the three trial games were to be played against Kaiserslautern, St. Pauli and Eintracht Braunschweig.
When picking the initial pilot phase of games, Fortuna considered the following criteria:
- The games should provide fans with a great atmosphere. In terms of attractiveness and tradition, the opponents should befit Fortuna.
- It was ensured that there is enough time between the games so the club can learn from each game, improve procedures and tackle any points of criticism.
- All phases of the season should be covered, with a game early on, in the middle and then in the final third of the campaign.
The DFL-approved approach means no free games on the last four matchdays.
“To be able to offer all home matches free of charge, we need more long-term partners. We’re happy about the companies that are already on board, and we’re open to others who want to join us on this extraordinary path,” said Jobst.
“We’re embarking on a journey together (with fans and sponsors) in which things can still change, which is also a good thing. The club belongs to everyone who participates and contributes with passion. But we have a clear goal, a common idea, strong partners and incredible fans.”
“Fortuna’s decision not only shows a lot of courage, but also an understanding of how to adapt to the modern game,” said Thomas Preiss, co-founder of Common Goal. “The future viability and relevance of clubs is increasingly determined by their social engagement, as well as their sporting success.”
Fortuna’s 54,000-seater stadium will be a EURO 2024 venue, and currently averages crowds of about 30,000 mark this season in Germany’s second tier.
“As the state capital, we have a natural interest in a strong Fortuna,” explained Stephan Keller, the mayor of Düsseldorf. “That’s why I support Fortuna’s new project, which is to open football up to everyone, and anchor it more firmly in the city and the hearts of its citizens. This unique concept shows what Düsseldorf is capable of.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1734872248labto1734872248ofdlr1734872248owedi1734872248sni@g1734872248niwe.1734872248yrrah1734872248