TOGETHER! Match Day 2026: Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga take a stand against hate and discrimination

Under the slogan “TOGETHER! Stop Hate. Be a Team”, the DFL, the DFL Foundation and the 36 professional clubs are once again promoting respect, fair play and solidarity through a league-wide action matchday and a wide range of other initiatives. The campaign period runs in parallel with the International Weeks Against Racism (16–29 March 2026) and reinforces the year-round commitment of German professional football.

Discrimination in Germany – figures that give pause for thought

The social challenges are immense: hatred and discrimination continue to rise in Germany. In 2024, the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency received around 11,400 requests for advice (link in German) from people who had experienced discrimination – a record high. A Forsa study commissioned by the DAK-Gesundheit (link in German) shows that around three-quarters of those surveyed feel there are more insults, disrespect and aggression in social interactions. 

Marc Lenz, DFL Managing Director and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the DFL Foundation, emphasises: “Football brings millions of people together. It is precisely this power and reach that we want to harness to set boundaries and stand up for respectful interactions. A positive future can only be shaped together – in sport just as much as in our society.”