Wolfsburg have suspended striker Kevin Behrens for making a homophobic comment during an autograph-signing session.
Behrens, 33, allegedly refused to put his signature a special-edition Wolfsburg shirt which featured a rainbow logo in celebration of the LGBTQ community. The forward is accused of saying: “I won’t sign that gay c**p”.
Behrens, who has one cap for Germany, later apologised and said his comments were “absolutely not acceptable”.
A club statement said: “During an internal meeting, statements were made that were not in line with VfL Wolfsburg’s stance. The incident was immediately dealt with internally. VfL Wolfsburg stresses that it is aware of its social responsibility.
“The club and its employees stand for diversity and tolerance, and fundamental values, such as respect, honesty and openness, have always been firmly anchored in the club’s philosophy.”
Wolfsburg have not said how long Behrens will be banned for.
In a page on their official website dedicated to diversity, Wolfsburg say they “have regularly been setting an example for diversity and against discrimination for years”.
A quote from head of corporate social responsibility Nico Briskorn says: “In our actions and activities, football serves as a key element. This is because – regardless of gender, ethnic or social origin, sexual identity, religion, age, or disability – we can all get the ball rolling. We for you, and you for us.”
Behrens has made three Bundesliga appearances for Wolfsburg this season but played no part in their 3-1 win over Bochum last weekend.
(Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images)
