DR. SARAFI Rechtsanwälte defend against claims for injunctive relief and monetary compensation brought by a former national training centre coach following the artistic gymnastics abuse scandal
From our press archive. This communication gives the status of the original publication of 12 February 2026 again. Subsequent developments in the process are not automatically taken into account.
In December 2024, an Instagram post by former artistic gymnast Tabea Alt prompted widespread reporting on allegations of abuse and problematic conditions at the Kunst-Turn-Forum Stuttgart. The allegations attracted considerable attention in both the national and international press.
The German Gymnastics Federation (DTB) responded by taking measures including suspending coaches and instructing a law firm to investigate the allegations. Criminal investigations were also reported publicly. Extensive press coverage and public statements by former gymnasts were, in some cases, highly critical of the training conditions, individual coaches and the DTB’s responsibility.
One of the individuals named in the reporting was the person who later brought the claim. She worked as a national training centre coach at the Kunst-Turn-Forum Stuttgart, where she trained gymnasts who competed at the Olympic Games, among others. She also served as a responsible coach at international competitions. Established media outlets reported on her, using her name and images.
The challenged Facebook posts
Our client discussed the public reporting in a Facebook group, shared relevant posts and commented on the events that had become known. In particular, he expressed shock at the conditions described, called for solidarity with those affected and demanded consequences for those responsible.
The former national training centre coach brought proceedings in response. Her claim concerned a total of 32 statements in 19 separate posts by our client. In addition to extensive claims for injunctive relief, she sought monetary compensation of at least EUR 8,000.
Claim dismissed in full at first instance
After attempts to settle the dispute were unsuccessful, our client prevailed in full at first instance.
The court dismissed the claim in its entirety. Both the claims for injunctive relief concerning all the challenged statements and the claim for monetary compensation were unsuccessful.
The claimant has appealed the decision. The proceedings have therefore not yet been concluded with a final, binding decision.
Assessing claims concerning public statements
The case illustrates why extensive claims relating to public statements should be examined carefully to determine whether the challenged statements are actually unlawful. This is particularly relevant where statements form part of an existing public debate and extensive media coverage.
Anyone facing claims for injunctive relief, monetary compensation or other remedies in connection with public statements should therefore not accept them without examination. An early legal assessment can help to defend successfully against unjustified claims.
If you face claims for injunctive relief or monetary compensation arising from public statements that you consider unjustified, DR. SARAFI Rechtsanwälte can assist with your defence both out of court and in court.