22.10.2026 13:40
Borussia Dortmund players got on the team bus without taking a shower at the stadium after their 2-1 win over Sabah FK in Azerbaijan. The German media reported that the decision was due to concerns that legionella bacteria could be present in the plumbing.
Visiting Sabah FK in the UEFA Champions League, Borussia Dortmund left the away match with a 2-1 victory. The German team's choice after the match drew attention. The players, without using the stadium showers, got on the team bus in their sweaty kits and returned to the hotel where they were staying.
BACTERIA CONCERN IN THE WATER PLUMBING
According to a BILD report, behind Dortmund's decision was concern that legionella bacteria might be present in the stadium's water plumbing. Because of the risk that could arise if the water in the plumbing was not used regularly, it was chosen not to use the showers. The report did not include any confirmed finding that the bacteria had been detected.
KOVAC CONFIRMED THE SHOWER INSTRUCTION
Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac also confirmed after the match that the players had been informed not to shower at the stadium. The German coach stated that for this reason they returned quickly to the hotel after the match. It was reported that the spa area of the hotel where the players stayed for showering and resting was allocated to the team.