Borussia Dortmund players decided against using the shower facilities at Baku Olympic Stadium after their 2-1 UEFA Champions League victory against FK Sabah on October 20, 2026. The team departed the stadium in their match and training attire to return to their hotel.
This unusual decision was reportedly driven by the club’s concerns regarding potential health risks associated with the stadium’s water system, specifically the presence of Legionella bacteria. Legionella can cause Legionnaires’ disease if inhaled from contaminated water aerosols.
Coach Niko Kovač confirmed the team was advised not to shower at the venue. This caution extended to the day before the match, as players also avoided using the showers after their training session at the same stadium.
Borussia Dortmund’s sporting director, Ole Book, also commented that the hotel facilities were “more inviting,” suggesting a preference for their own accommodations for recovery.
Interestingly, the host team, FK Sabah, expressed surprise at Dortmund’s decision, as their players reportedly used the same facilities without any problems.
This incident may influence how visiting teams assess and approach stadium facilities in the future, potentially leading to demands for clearer information on hygiene standards and water safety from stadium management.
In summary, Borussia Dortmund prioritized player safety by avoiding the stadium showers due to Legionella concerns, a decision that highlighted potential unseen challenges during international competitions and the importance of cautious decision-making.
