Borussia Dortmund: History, Achievements, and Passion for Football
Borussia Dortmund, affectionately known as BVB or simply Dortmund, is one of the most iconic football clubs in Germany and the world. With a rich history, a passionate fanbase, and a vibrant style of play, the club has won hearts far beyond the borders of North Rhine-Westphalia. This article dives into Borussia Dortmund’s journey, from its founding to the present day, exploring its achievements, legendary players, rivalries, and its special connection with Brazil.
The Origin of Borussia Dortmund
Foundation and Early Years
Borussia Dortmund was founded on December 19, 1909, by a group of young workers in Dortmund who rebelled against the restrictions imposed by a local church-sponsored club, Trinity Youth. Dissatisfied with the strictness of the local priest, eighteen young men, including Franz Braun, Paul Dziendzielle, and August Tönnesmann, decided to form their own team. The name “Borussia,” inspired by a local brewery, Borussia-Brauerei, means “Prussia” in Latin, reflecting the regional pride of the time.
In its early years, the club played in blue and white striped shirts, but in 1913, it adopted the iconic black and yellow colors that are now synonymous with Dortmund. During the 1920s and 1930s, the club faced financial difficulties, nearly going bankrupt in 1929 due to the hiring of professional players. Despite this, Borussia began to shine in regional leagues, particularly in the Gauliga Westfalen during the Nazi era.
Post-World War II
After World War II, Borussia Dortmund, like many German institutions, was dissolved by the Allied authorities. However, the club was quickly restructured as Ballspiel-Verein Borussia (BVB). In 1949, Dortmund reached the national league final but lost 3-2 to VfR Mannheim in extra time. The 1950s marked the beginning of a golden era, with the club winning its first national titles in 1956 (4-2 against Karlsruher SC) and 1957 (4-1 against Hamburger SV). In 1963, BVB won the final edition of the Oberliga West, securing its place in the newly created Bundesliga, Germany’s professional first division.
Achievements and Glory
National Titles
Borussia Dortmund is one of Germany’s most successful clubs, with a total of eight Bundesliga titles (1956, 1957, 1963, 1994-95, 1995-96, 2001-02, 2010-11, and 2011-12). The modern era brought prominence under coaches like Ottmar Hitzfeld and Jürgen Klopp, who transformed the club into a powerhouse. The 2001-02 season, led by Matthias Sammer (the first player and coach to win the Bundesliga with Dortmund), was marked by a dramatic comeback, with the club overtaking Bayer Leverkusen in the final round.
In addition to Bundesliga titles, Dortmund has won seven German Cups (DFB-Pokal) and six German Super Cups (DFL-Supercup), solidifying its status as a giant of German football.
International Success
On the international stage, Borussia Dortmund shone by winning the UEFA Champions League in 1996-97, defeating Juventus 3-1 in the final with goals from Karl-Heinz Riedle and Lars Ricken. This was the pinnacle of the Hitzfeld era, which also saw the club win the Intercontinental Cup that same year, beating Cruzeiro 2-0. Dortmund also won the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1966, becoming the first German club to claim a European title.
More recently, Dortmund reached the Champions League final in 2012-13 under Jürgen Klopp but lost to Bayern Munich. Despite this, the club maintains its reputation as a fierce competitor in Europe, with consistent appearances in the Champions League.
The Yellow Wall and the Fanbase
The Westfalenstadion
The Westfalenstadion, known as Signal Iduna Park for sponsorship reasons, is the heart of Borussia Dortmund. With a capacity of over 81,000, it is Germany’s largest stadium and the seventh largest in Europe. The Südtribüne, or “Yellow Wall,” is famous for its electrifying atmosphere, with chants, flags, and choreographies creating a unique spectacle. The passion of the fans is one of the club’s greatest assets, attracting supporters from around the world, including Brazil.
Social Initiatives and Anti-Racism
Dortmund’s fanbase is known for its diversity, but it faced challenges in the past with extremist groups like the Borussenfront, which promoted racist and anti-Semitic chants in the 1980s and 1990s. Since the 2000s, the club and its fans have worked to combat racism through initiatives like the “Fan-Projekt” and the “No Beer for Racists” campaign. Dortmund also organizes educational trips to concentration camps such as Dachau and Auschwitz and has donated over 1 million euros to Holocaust memorial institutions like Yad Vashem.
Iconic Rivalries
Revierderby: Dortmund vs. Schalke 04
Dortmund’s greatest rivalry is with Schalke 04, a club from the nearby city of Gelsenkirchen. Known as the Revierderby, this matchup is one of the fiercest in world football, fueled by geographic proximity and historical competition. During the Gauliga Westfalen era, Schalke dominated, but Dortmund gained strength after World War II, balancing the rivalry. Each match is a battle of regional pride, with the Yellow Wall turning the Westfalenstadion into a cauldron.
Der Klassiker: Dortmund vs. Bayern Munich
Another significant rivalry is with Bayern Munich, known as Der Klassiker. While Bayern has dominated the Bundesliga in recent decades, Dortmund has often challenged the Bavarians, particularly during the Klopp era (2010-2015). Matches like the 2013 Champions League final and Dortmund’s 3-2 victory in the 2019 Supercup are memorable moments in this rivalry.
Connection with Brazil
Brazilian Players at Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund has a special relationship with Brazil, being one of the most beloved European clubs among Brazilian fans. Several Brazilian players have left their mark on the club, including:
- Amoroso: The Brazilian striker shone at Dortmund from 2001 to 2004, scoring decisive goals and winning the 2001-02 Bundesliga.
- Dedê: One of the club’s greatest Brazilian idols, the left-back played from 1998 to 2011, becoming a key figure in the early 2000s golden era.
- Ewerthon: Known for his speed, the forward played from 2001 to 2005, leaving fond memories among fans.
- Yan Couto: In 2025, the Brazilian right-back is part of the squad, bringing the technical quality characteristic of Brazilian football.
The club also maintains initiatives in Brazil, such as youth football clinics organized in partnership with sponsor Evonik. In 2018, Dortmund established an official Brazilian fan club, strengthening its bond with the country. Brazil is the club’s second-largest market on Facebook, behind only Germany.
Encounters with Brazilian Clubs
Recently, Dortmund faced Fluminense in the 2025 Club World Cup, in a match that ended in a 0-0 draw. Despite being the favorite, Dortmund was outplayed by the Brazilian side, which missed several scoring chances. Coach Niko Kovac praised Fluminense’s technical quality and highlighted the strength of Brazilian football, reinforcing the club’s respect for Brazil.
Legendary Players and Current Squad
Icons of the Past
Borussia Dortmund has produced and attracted some of the greatest talents in world football. In addition to the Brazilian players mentioned, notable figures include:
- Jürgen Kohler: A legendary defender of the 1990s, key to the Champions League triumph.
- Matthias Sammer: A midfielder and coach who won the Bundesliga as both a player and manager.
- Marco Reus: A modern icon, Reus epitomizes loyalty to the club, leading as captain for years.
- Robert Lewandowski: Before shining at Bayern, the Polish striker made his mark at Dortmund, winning the Bundesliga and Supercup.
2025-26 Squad
Dortmund’s current squad blends youth and experience under coach Niko Kovac. Standout players include:
- Gregor Kobel: Swiss goalkeeper, considered one of the Bundesliga’s best.
- Serhou Guirassy: Guinean striker, the team’s top scorer.
- Jobe Bellingham: Young English prospect, brother of Jude Bellingham, who debuted in the Club World Cup.
- Julian Brandt: Captain and midfield maestro.
- Yan Couto: Brazilian right-back, adding dynamism to the right flank.
Structure and Management
Corporate Model
Since 2000, Borussia Dortmund has been the only German club listed on the stock exchange, under the name Borussia Dortmund GmbH & Co. KGaA. This model ensures that the sporting club (Borussia Dortmund e.V.) retains control over professional team decisions, preserving its identity. Despite financial challenges in the early 2000s, including significant debt and the temporary sale of the Westfalenstadion, the club recovered and is now one of football’s most valuable brands, with revenues of 262 million euros in the 2013-14 season.
Playing Philosophy
Dortmund is known for its attacking, intense style of play, often described as “rock’n’roll football.” Under coaches like Jürgen Klopp, the club popularized Gegenpressing, a high-pressing tactic that quickly regains possession. This approach continues to define the team, blending young talents with experienced players to create dynamic, engaging football.
The Future of Borussia Dortmund
Challenges and Goals
In 2025, Borussia Dortmund remains one of the Bundesliga’s top clubs but faces competition from Bayern Munich and other European giants. The goal is to reclaim the Champions League and win the Bundesliga again, a title absent since 2012. Investing in young talents like Jobe Bellingham and maintaining a strong core with players like Brandt and Guirassy are steps toward this ambition.
Legacy and Global Impact
Borussia Dortmund is more than a football club; it is a symbol of passion, resilience, and community. Its Yellow Wall inspires clubs and fans worldwide, including in Brazil. The connection with Brazilian football, through players, fan clubs, and social initiatives, reinforces BVB’s global reach. With a history of overcoming challenges and a promising future, Dortmund continues to write its legend in world football.
