Dortmund and DFB take action against Adeyemi over illegal weapons case

Karim Adeyemi has been sanctioned by Borussia Dortmund and the German Football Association over his recent illegal weapons possession case.

Borussia Dortmund and the German Football Association (DFB) have jointly taken action against Karim Adeyemi after it was revealed last week that the 23-year-old had been issued a penal order and fined €450,000 for illegal possession of weapons.

As a result, the German international has been ordered to visit Dortmund’s Nordstadtliga in the coming weeks and participate in training sessions with children.

Speaking publicly about the situation for the first time, Adeyemi said:

“You’ve surely seen the headlines about me over the past few days. It’s not easy for me to talk about it: at the start of 2024, out of carelessness and without thinking about what I was doing, I ordered a so-called ‘mystery box’ online. It contained items that are not permitted under weapons laws. Many months later the package was delivered, and it ended up unopened with the police.

“Still, it was a huge mistake – one that I deeply regret, that has cost me a lot, and that I am truly sorry for. I know that I am in the public eye and have a responsibility to be a role model. I did not live up to that. That’s why it pains me even more that I acted so recklessly. I’ve learned from this – more than I can put into words. And I promise you that I will avoid such mistakes in the future. Thank you to everyone who continues to show me trust and support.”

Borussia Dortmund managing director for sport Lars Ricken added:

“We took the matter very seriously and have now been able to speak with Karim Adeyemi thoroughly and clearly about his behaviour. He deeply regrets his mistake. It must also be taken into account that he has had to pay an expensive fine, no one was harmed, and he still does not have a criminal record. Karim Adeyemi has firmly promised us that he will not repeat such a mistake. We trust him to stick to that.”