Inclusion derby in Vienna: Rapid and Austria show team spirit!

Inclusion derby in Vienna: Rapid and Austria show team spirit!

The sensational derby between Rapid and Austria in Hütteldorf not only sparked football passion, but also set a strong sign of inclusion. On June 18, 2025, the spectacle took place in front of sold -out ranks, and as so often, the result was actually secondary. Michael Wondre, who has been playing for the Special Needs team of Rapid since 2014, played a central role in this context and became a model for many.

Before we turn to the moving moments of the game, it is important to emphasize the relevance of the event. Former rapid goalkeeper Helge Payer had to cancel the match due to health problems, which also heated up the atmosphere in the stadium. It was undisputed that the evening was unforgettable for everyone involved.

unique inclusion derby

As part of the game, the 3rd Viennese inclusion derby was also kicked off, which took place on June 17, 2025 in the Allianz Stadium. Under the motto "together instead of against each other", players competed against each other: Inside the SK Rapid and FK Austria Vienna. The special thing about it: Admission was free of charge for all spectators: so that a wide audience was addressed. The proceeds will go to Special Need's teams and the Special Olympics Austria.

The inclusion derby set a strong sign and combined players: inside of Special Need's teams, women's and girls teams as well as club legends. Referee Sara Telek caused a smooth process. The President of SK Rapid, Alexander Wrabetz, and Dr. Kurt Gollowitzer from FK Austria Vienna was both pleased about the support and the positive response that this initiative created.

an evening for everyone

The fun and the joy of the game were the focus of this special event. At 5:00 p.m. the impetus fell after the Allianz grandstand was opened at 4:00 p.m. Compared to other derbies and the last encounters, which did not always aroused the desired viewer interest, the rush at this event was gratifyingly large. Against the background of a possible spectator minus record in the league, each fan was a valuable part of the evening.

With the focus on inclusion and community spirit, the derby showed that sport can bring people together, regardless of the differences they may separate. The initiators, including Coca-Cola, confirm their long-term commitment to inclusion that has existed since 1968

in the sense of Wondre's commitment and the message of the second derby of this kind is clear: it is not only the points that count, but also the mutual support and the cohesion, make real sport something special.