Werder Bremen has canceled their summer trip to the United States, citing violations of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. After the completion of the entire stage, general manager Klaus Filbri revealed on the portal DeichStube the reason for the change of plans.
“Two people were shot and killed by state authorities in Minnesota. It is not in line with our club’s values to play in a city where there is currently violence and people are being shot.”
Additionally, Werder is concerned that not all of his players may be able to safely enter the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has proposed a plan to require people entering the country to disclose and review their social media profiles to identify security risks early. Although this regulation has not yet come into force, clubs do not want to take any risks.
“It is unclear which players will be able to enter the United States as stricter entry requirements are introduced, including a review of social media profiles from the past five years,” Filbry said.
Finally, the manager also explained that the team’s sporting situation (Werder Bremen are in 16th place and in real danger of facing a relegation play-off) does not lend itself to this kind of medium-term plan.
“The current sporting situation makes planning difficult and involves a certain amount of financial risk,” the CEO said.
