The tribunal's decision confirmed earlier judgments from both the Sports Court and the Federal Court of the German Football Association, solidifying Bochum's position.

The ongoing legal disputes delayed the resolution until after the teams faced each other again, where they drew 1-1 in their rematch.

An official statement from the DFB regarding the ruling was anticipated on April 28, 2025.

On April 27, 2025, a German soccer tribunal upheld VfL Bochum's controversial 2-0 victory over Union Berlin, which was awarded after Bochum's goalkeeper, Patrick Drewes, was injured by a lighter thrown from the stands during their match on December 14, 2024.

Referee Martin Petersen continued the match without Drewes, as Bochum had already exhausted their substitutions, leading to forward Philipp Hofmann temporarily taking over as goalkeeper.

This ruling highlights the strict measures implemented by football governing bodies to ensure player safety and maintain the integrity of the game.

For Bochum, currently at the bottom of the Bundesliga table, retaining the three points is crucial as they are four points behind the relegation playoff spot with only three games remaining.

Following the incident, the match was halted, and the outcome was reviewed by relevant authorities, which eventually led to the tribunal's decision.

The tribunal's chair, Udo Steiner, stated that the agreement between both teams to play without scoring constituted a 'de facto abandonment', thereby legitimizing Bochum's awarded result.

Union Berlin had accused Drewes of exaggerating the impact of the incident, but the court found no evidence to support claims of theatrics or conspiracy.

Bochum faces a critical match against Heidenheim on May 2, 2025; a loss would result in their seventh relegation from the Bundesliga, while Union Berlin, having secured their league position, finds the ruling irrelevant.

Union Berlin appealed the tribunal's decision, claiming it was unfair and warning of potential 'dirty tricks' that could affect their standing in the league.