Podolski could face fine for use of pyrotechnics in a stadium

The 2014 World Cup champion Lukas Podolski could receive a fine from the city of Cologne for setting off pyrotechnics during his farewell match on October 10, reported dpa.

"We've wrote a report for infringement of the law. It's on its way to the city administration," a police spokesperson told dpa on Tuesday.

Following his farewell in the stadium of his former club Cologne, Podolski celebrated with the fans while holding a flare in his hand.

The moment was shown live on television and pictures of it were also posted on social media.

The use of pyrotechnics in German stadiums is prohibited, but only constitutes a criminal offence if it endangers or injures other people. According to police investigations, this was not the case.

The city of Cologne is now responsible for further action and determining a fine.

Podolski joined Cologne's youth academy in 1995 and played for the professional team from 2003 to 2006, and then again between 2009 and 2012.

He's currently under contract at his Polish home town team Gornik Zabrze June 2025.