Fuchse Berlin's Bundesliga handball championship trophy has been recovered in the club's own basement, months after it was feared stolen during a burglary.
The silverware, won by the club last June, was believed to have been taken in a November break-in at the club's offices, where thieves also stole cash and other items. Despite police arresting suspects in January linked to multiple crimes, the trophy was assumed lost.
It was discovered by chance during a building search, hidden by thieves with apparent plans for later retrieval. The club suggested widespread publicity surrounding the theft may have deterred their return.
Fuchse Berlin managing director Bob Hanning expressed his relief on Monday: "To be honest, I still can't quite believe it, but the trophy is back." He added: "We can all be happy that the tradition is upheld and that the teams that have won it and will win it in the future can hold it again."
