The sports day: "Massive wage waiver": Everyone is fighting for the Kölner Haie

Ice hockey superstar Leon Draisaitl recently played for the Kölner Haie – but only in training.

(Photo: imago images / Eduard Bopp)

The Kölner Haie from the German Ice Hockey League (DEL) are fighting for their future. With an appeal to season ticket holders and a campaign aimed at all Cologne residents, the "continued existence of Cologne's ice hockey location" is to be secured. In the corona crisis, players, coaches and employees contribute to compensating for the financial difficulties with a wage waiver of up to 60 percent.

"The players show an extraordinary willingness to make their contribution through massive wage cuts," said the Haie announcement. In the past few days "intensive talks" had been held.

The Haie, like the other DEL clubs, are worried about their future, the start of the season has already been postponed twice due to the spectator restrictions. Without fans, 80 percent of the revenue is missing