The Rise of RB Leipzig

German football culture is unlike any other in Europe. Sell-out stadiums, passionate fans and fast-paced football have created one of Europe's most intense football leagues, from the Bundesliga down to the lower divisions. German football is also known for its fierce rivalries, with local derbies often being very hotly contested games on the pitch. But off the field, there's a sense of collective unity between fans of German clubs you don't find in other countries. The rivalries are heated on the pitch, but off the pitch, fans of German football have mutual respect and a common goal in mind - to increase the value and integrity of their league. However, this mutual respect between fanbases excludes one club. In August 2016, Borussia Dortmund were the first ever Bundesliga visitors to the Red Bull Arena after RB Leipzig had gained promotion to the league. But before the game, fans of the Black and Yellow held up banners and chanted their disapproval of Leipzig's presence in the league, a trend that has continued ever since within German Football.