What really happened after Pascal Kaiser’s emotional on pitch proposal to boyfriend as threats turned into a violent attack at home

Pascal Kaiser never expected a joyful moment inside a packed football stadium to turn into fear days later. The amateur German referee was reportedly attacked at his home just one week after proposing to his boyfriend during a top-flight match in Cologne. Kaiser went viral after he proposed on the pitch during Cologne’s league game against Wolfsburg, in front of nearly 50,000 fans. The moment was widely shared online and praised by many for its honesty and courage. But according to reports, that public moment also brought serious threats.

In the days after the proposal, Pascal Kaiser received messages that included his home address. Concerned for his safety, he contacted the police. However, he was reportedly told there was no immediate danger. Less than half an hour later, Kaiser says he was attacked by three men at his own home.

Pascal Kaiser says proposal at RheinEnergieStadion led to violent home attack after Cologne win

The proposal took place at the RheinEnergieStadion during Cologne’s 1–0 win over VfL Wolfsburg. Cologne later shared the moment on Instagram, explaining that Kaiser is a long-time fan who came out as queer three years ago.

In the video, Pascal Kaiser spoke directly to the crowd and made his intentions clear. He said, “I don’t want to hide. I want to be visible. I want everyone to see that I love this person. A man. As a man. In football. Will you marry me?”

His partner, Moritz, said yes. On the pitch, Cologne sealed the win thanks to a first-half goal from Linton Maina, making it a perfect day for Kaiser.

But the mood changed quickly. According to L’Equipe, Pascal Kaiser received threats that named his address. He contacted police to share his fears. The report says officers told him there was “no danger.”

About 20 minutes later, while Kaiser was in his garden, three men allegedly attacked him. Kaiser believes the proposal was the reason. He later shared a photo online showing a black eye.

Pascal Kaiser is not a full-time referee. He previously played football and has spent more than ten years officiating lower-level matches. He has also spoken openly about why visibility matters to him.

In an earlier interview with Schwulissimo, Kaiser explained his purpose clearly. He said, “I see this as my mission: to create visibility. To be a voice. And to encourage people who aren’t yet brave enough to speak up.”

He added, “I know how lonely it can be to think you’re the only one. I want no one to have to feel that way again.”


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