Berlin, January 16, 2024, The Europe Today: Kay Bernstein, the president of Hertha Berlin and a former ultra fan who made headlines for his unexpected election to the presidency in 2022, has passed away at the age of 43, the club confirmed in a statement on Tuesday.
A devoted long-time ultra supporter, Bernstein’s presidency marked a significant moment in Bundesliga history as his election was celebrated across Germany, seen as a victory for fans advocating against the increasing commercialization of the sport.
In a statement, Hertha BSC expressed deep sorrow, saying, “Hertha BSC are mourning the death of Kay Bernstein. The club received the terrible news on Tuesday that president Kay Bernstein has passed away unexpectedly aged 43.” The club, its governing bodies, and staff members are described as shocked and deeply saddened by the unexpected loss.
“The whole Hertha family is mourning the passing of Kay and are thinking of his family and friends,” the statement continued.
Hertha Berlin, currently competing in the second tier of the Bundesliga after relegation last season, emphasized their collective grief over Bernstein’s demise. Despite the challenges faced on the field, the club acknowledges the profound impact that Bernstein had in reshaping the narrative around fan representation within the organization.
Kay Bernstein’s legacy extends beyond the football pitch, leaving an indelible mark on Hertha Berlin and the broader football community in Germany. The club stands united in mourning the loss of a figure who played a unique and transformative role in the intersection of football and fandom.
