Christian Lindner on Borussia Dortmund (BVB)
TL;DR
Christian Lindner is a declared fan of Borussia Dortmund and served as a member of the club's Economic Council.
Key Points
Christian Lindner was appointed to the Borussia Dortmund Economic Council starting in late 2018.
He justified joining the club during a difficult sporting phase as an act of solidarity for BVB.
His membership in the Economic Council reportedly drew some negative commentary and ridicule from certain segments of the fan base.
Summary
Christian Lindner, the former Federal Minister of Finance, openly identifies as a supporter of Borussia Dortmund (BVB). His association with the club was formalized when he joined the BVB Economic Council, a position he accepted in late 2018. He stated at the time that he joined during a difficult sporting phase as a sign of solidarity, believing one must show support when things are not running as planned. This move was accompanied by some fan criticism, with some reactions on social media expressing disapproval or finding the political and club association contradictory.
His acceptance of the role in the Wirtschaftsrat (Economic Council) drew comparisons to his political motto of "rather not govern than govern wrongly," as some fans jokingly applied the sentiment to football, suggesting "rather not play than play poorly." Despite the mixed reaction from some parts of the fanbase regarding his political involvement, his role within the Economic Council placed him in an advisory capacity related to the club's economic affairs, underscoring a tangible, if non-sporting, connection to the organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Christian Lindner has publicly identified himself as a fan of Borussia Dortmund. Furthermore, the politician held a formal, non-sporting position within the club structure. According to reports from 2018, he was a member of the BVB Economic Council.
Christian Lindner officially joined the Economic Council of Borussia Dortmund towards the end of 2018. He stated in interviews at that time that he wanted to set an example of solidarity with the club.
The reaction from Borussia Dortmund fans to Christian Lindner's role was mixed, with some reports noting ridicule and criticism online. Some fans reportedly contrasted the values of the FDP with those of the club.
Sources5
Christian Lindner sitzt im BVB Wirtschaftsrat und erntet Gespött
Das Fanzine rund um Borussia Dortmund - BVB 09
Borussia Dortmund: BVB-Fan Christian Lindner im Wirtschaftsrat – das löst Reaktionen aus
Christian Lindner Mitglied im Wirtschaftsrat des BVB
Nach dem Ampel-Aus: Dortmunder FDP stellt sich hinter Lindner
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.