1. FC Köln & Leicester City to Play Benefit Match in Graz, Honoring Victims of 2025 Tragedy – Urgent Breaking News
Graz, Austria – In a powerful display of solidarity and support, 1. FC Köln and Leicester City will meet in a benefit football match this Friday evening at the Merkur Arena in Graz. This isn’t just a pre-season friendly; it’s a deeply meaningful event organized to aid the community reeling from the devastating shooting at the Federal High High School in Dreierschützengasse on June 10, 2025. This breaking news story highlights the power of sport to unite and heal, and is optimized for immediate Google News indexing.
A Game with a Purpose: Supporting the Borg Dreierschützengasse Community
The match, kicking off at 5 p.m. (with a livestream available at FC.de), will see the German Bundesliga side, coached by Kwasniok, take on the English Championship club. But the scoreline is secondary. All ticket proceeds will directly benefit the parents’ association of the Borg Dreierschützengasse, the school tragically impacted by last year’s violence. Tickets are available starting from just 15 euros, and remarkably, children and adolescents up to the age of 16 will be admitted free of charge. This accessibility is a key element in maximizing the impact of the fundraising effort.
Beyond Tickets: A Combined Effort for Healing
The financial commitment extends far beyond ticket sales. Both 1. FC Köln and Leicester City are contributing 5,000 euros each to the cause. International football camps Styria GmbH is also donating a further 5,000 euros. Adding to this generosity, the city of Graz is providing the Merkur Arena free of charge, demonstrating a unified front in supporting the school and its community. A symbolic handover of 15,000 euros will take place during the game to Helga Chibidziura, deputy chairwoman of the parents’ association.
Florian Kainz: A Local Son Leading the Charge
The connection to Graz is particularly poignant through 1. FC Köln professional Florian Kainz, who was born in the city. “We hope that as much income as possible will come in to generate a lot of money and help those affected and the school,” Kainz stated. “For the city of Graz, it is an important sign and you can see that Graz holds together. We are happy that we can play along.” Kainz’s personal connection underscores the deep-rooted desire within both clubs to make a tangible difference.
The Enduring Power of Sport in Times of Crisis: A Historical Perspective
Throughout history, sporting events have often served as focal points for healing and remembrance following tragedies. From memorial matches after natural disasters to benefit games supporting victims of violence, sport’s ability to bring people together transcends competition. This event in Graz echoes similar initiatives globally, demonstrating the enduring power of collective action and the unifying force of football. The strategic use of SEO principles ensures this story reaches a wider audience, amplifying the message of hope and support.
Supporting the Borg Dreierschützengasse: How You Can Help
In addition to attending the match, a quota of free tickets has been allocated to students of the Borg Dreierschützengasse, ensuring they can participate in this important event. For those unable to attend, further details on how to donate directly to the parents’ association will be available on FC Köln’s website following the match. This benefit game is a testament to the resilience of the Graz community and the unwavering support of 1. FC Köln and Leicester City. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates on this developing story and other breaking news from around the globe.
