Bayern Munich faced a setback in their game against Bochum, losing 3-2, as fan protests temporarily halted the match due to objections against proposed private equity investments.
The disruption began when Bochum fans threw tennis balls onto the field, prompting a pause in play.
Subsequently, Bayern Munich supporters joined in, leading referee Daniel Schlager to instruct both teams to retreat to their dressing rooms.
The fans voiced their discontent against the German Football League (DFL) during the interruption.
After a 13-minute delay, the match resumed. Across Germany, fans have been protesting against a potential deal to sell a future stake in the league to a private equity investor, with previous protests involving the throwing of apples, chocolate coins, and even remote control cars onto the pitch.
The defeat adds pressure on manager Thomas Tuchel as Bayern Munich’s pursuit of a 12th consecutive league title becomes increasingly challenging.
Bayern Munich now trails Xabi Alonso’s unbeaten Leverkusen side by eight points in the standings.
Despite taking an early lead through Jamal Musiala’s goal, Bochum managed to turn the tide, with Takuma Asano and Kevin Schlotterbeck scoring before halftime.
A late penalty from Kevin Stöger extended Bochum’s lead, rendering Harry Kane’s last-minute goal a mere consolation.