Fans of Sportfreunde Siegen faced major travel disruptions on the RB91 regional train line on July 30, the day before their exhibition match against Borussia Dortmund. Several RB91 trains were canceled due to unexpected staff shortages, causing widespread delays and cancellations. Siegener Zeitung

Replacement buses were deployed to accommodate those affected. Despite efforts, many travelers reported long waits and overcrowded vehicles. City officials and organisers had urged fans to use public transport, increasing frustration at the disruption. Siegener Zeitung

The traveller disruption was linked to sudden personnel absences. Deutsche Bahn or VIAS staff were unavailable to operate scheduled trains, leading to cancellations. These interruptions were expected to last until around 19:20 on July 30. Siegener Zeitung

Sportfreunde Siegen’s management expressed disappointment. They noted the timing was particularly unfortunate given the high-profile match. The club had worked with local transport authorities to promote sustainable travel, only to face serious logistical issues. youtube.com

Many fans arrived late or not at all, impacting the event’s attendance atmosphere. Organisers emphasised that public transport remained preferable under normal circumstances, but suggested future events may require contingency planning. Siegener Zeitung

Local officials confirmed that the cancellations affected RB91 services between Siegen Hauptbahnhof and Finnentrop stations. The RB91 line normally operates daily, serving 13 stations over a 46‑minute route. moovitapp.com+1Siegener Zeitung+1

Bus replacements ran on impacted segments, but passengers reported limited capacity and slow connections. Some were rerouted via longer, indirect bus legs, extending travel times beyond match start. Siegener Zeitung

Stadt and event planners had previously emphasised public transport benefits, including reduced traffic and parking pressure. The disruption undercut these goals and drew criticism from both fans and officials. Siegener Zeitung

Deutsche Bahn and VIAS had not issued a prior warning. The problem emerged only hours before the match, leaving little time for alternatives. Communication on delays was reportedly inconsistent. Siegener Zeitung

Similar rail incidents have raised long‑term concerns about regional service reliability. While Germany’s rail network is generally seen as efficient, local lines like RB91 may still face staffing and infrastructure issues. moovitapp.comtravelandtourworld.com

There is no indication of any future cancellations on RB91 beyond July 30, but follow‑up coverage is expected. Local media suggest monitoring real‑time service updates via Bahn and VIAS apps. Siegener Zeitungmoovitapp.com

Officials say they will analyse the incident to prevent repeats. Contracted staff absences were flagged as the root cause. Event organisers may now revise transport plans for high‑attendance fixtures. Siegener Zeitung

Fans were encouraged to check schedules before travelling. Use of apps and real‑time alerts was advised in case of sudden cancellations or replacements. Siegener Zeitungmoovitapp.com

The incident highlights the vulnerability of event logistics when reliant on a single transport route. Though replacement services were provided, delays still caused major inconvenience. Siegener Zeitung

Lessons from the disruption may improve coordination among rail operators, city authorities, and event planners for future matches and events in Siegen and the wider region.