Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha and the question of religion

Felix Nmecha’s “Crowns down” goal celebration has prompted criticism from Borussia Dortmund’s official supporters’ group, bringing renewed attention to tensions around faith, inclusion and religious messaging in football. The group says its concern is not that Nmecha is a Christian, but that he publicly supported a campaign it believes may promote exclusionary views.

Nmecha performed the celebration after scoring twice in a win over Elversberg. An ARD investigation reported that “The King’s Return” campaign was created by the Ballers in God network, whose website linked to a counselling chat run by US nonprofit Groundwire; reporters were told by counsellors that abortion was “Satan’s plan” and homosexuality a sin. Nmecha said his message was intended to express Christian love and respect for everyone, while reports said Dortmund officials and Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp planned to speak with him.