Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha has faced public backlash on social media after conveying his condolences to the family of a recently murdered activist.
German football club Borussia Dortmund announced an internal review of midfielder Felix Nmecha’s social media conduct following online controversy. Nmecha had expressed regret over the killing of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk, according to reports from various local media outlets.
On Friday, Nmecha shared a black-and-white image of Kirk on his Instagram stories, accompanied by the caption: “Rest in peace with the Lord.” This initial post reportedly garnered significant negative attention on social media.
Subsequently, the footballer modified his caption to address Kirk’s family directly. In a follow-up post, Nmecha stated: “Celebrating the murder of a husband and a father of two, a man who peacefully stood up for his beliefs and values, is really evil and shows how much we really need Jesus Christ.”
Responding to the online criticism, Nmecha asserted that “it is humane to express condolences and that… should not be condemned.” He also clarified that while he disagreed with Kirk on “some issues,” he believed “different political positions… are perfectly okay.” Ultimately, Nmecha removed all his related social media posts.
German sports news agency SID reported on Friday that Borussia Dortmund intended to review the posts and engage in discussions with the player, noting that no disciplinary action was anticipated at that time.
Conversely, German tabloid Bild reported on the same day that Nmecha’s contract includes an “Instagram clause.” This clause reportedly stipulates that the player could incur substantial financial penalties, potentially millions of dollars, for social media content deemed to violate the club’s established values.
The controversy also garnered the attention of US-based billionaire Elon Musk, who re-shared a post advocating for Borussia Dortmund representatives to be prohibited from entering the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup should they “continue to persecute” Nmecha.
Kirk, 31, was fatally shot on Wednesday while speaking to students at a college in Orem, Utah. His assassination was openly celebrated by numerous individuals online. US President Donald Trump pledged to pursue not only Kirk’s killer but also what he termed the “radical left” networks that, in his view, incite political violence.