Some things in life are definitely more important than football: FC Bayern is inviting all spectators to sign up as potential stem cell donors for people suffering from blood cancer ahead of the home match against Heidenheim. Before kick-off, between 13:00 and 15:30 CEST, there will be three DKMS registration stations on the Esplanade in front of the Allianz Arena where people can easily sign up for their database. Another registration option will be available in front of the Welcome Zone West at the stadium’s VIP entrance. The active fan community centered around “Bayernfans helfen e.V.” is also participating in the campaign.
Herbert Hainer, president of FC Bayern: “If you can save lives, you shouldn’t hesitate. The FC Bayern family is so large – every single person can make a huge difference here. The club has already partnered with DKMS on several occasions in the fight against blood cancer. It’s very easy to register, and many players are already on the database. We hope for strong participation from the fans on this important issue.”
Stephan Schumacher, DKMS chief executive: “We are very grateful to FC Bayern for using its influence to raise awareness about stem cell donation and thereby recruit new potential lifesavers. Sports, in particular, have the ability to bring people together and mobilise them for social causes. Together, we can make a decisive contribution to giving patients with blood cancer a second chance at life and defeating blood cancer in the long term.”
FC Bayern has already held registration drives at women’s matches at the FC Bayern Campus and basketball games at the SAP Garden. There have also been opportunities for employees, for example at Säbener Straße, as well as for fans at FC Bayern World. “Every single person can save lives here,” says captain Manuel Neuer. “It’s impressive how much you can achieve with so little effort. Registration takes just a few minutes but it can make all the difference for patients,” adds Joshua Kimmich: “Our whole team knows how important solidarity is. That should inspire everyone to participate. So: open your mouth, insert the swab and become a donor!”
A registration drive at the FC Bayern Campus in 2024 saw over 100 fans sign up, along with women’s players Klara Bühl, Linda Dallmann and Lena Oberdorf. "We often talk about big opponents in football, but off the pitch, many people have to face a much bigger challenge in the fight against blood cancer,” Oberdorf said. “That's why it's important to me to be registered with the DKMS as a potential stem cell donor.”
Those who can’t be in attendance on Saturday can order a kit for free from www.dkms.de/fcbayernmuenchen and register this way. Following the match, the ‘matchworn’ shirts will be donated to DKMS for auction, while “Bayernfans helfen e.V.” will also hold a collection.