The Handball-Bundesliga (HBL) has officially overturned Rhein-Neckar Löwen’s dramatic home victory against TBV Lemgo Lippe, awarding the match as a 0–2 loss due to a formal violation.
Just over a week ago, Rhein-Neckar Löwen celebrated what appeared to be a crucial 32–30 win in front of a packed SAP Arena. After a spirited comeback and a thrilling finish, two points were added to their tally.
However, in an official statement, the HBL confirmed that the result has been annulled because of a formal breach of the league’s anti-doping arbitration agreement. As a consequence, the match has now been recorded as a 0–2 defeat for Rhein-Neckar Löwen.
The club has been given three days to file an appeal against the decision.
Managing director Holger Bachert addressed the ruling in a statement:
“The Handball-Bundesliga has informed us about the matter and the resulting decision. As Rhein-Neckar Löwen, we will initiate legal action within the deadline set by the HBL. Therefore, we ask for your understanding that we cannot provide further comment on the next steps or the ongoing proceedings at this time.”