The Bundesliga has officially released the schedule for the 2025/26 season. While some details were known previously, the full schedule for the opening matchday has now been confirmed.
Key fixtures announced for the first round include the DFB Pokal champions (likely VfB Stuttgart, given recent transfer links) visiting Union Berlin. Additionally, reigning Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, led by Xabi Alonso, will begin their title defense against Hoffenheim.
As is customary, the Bundesliga will observe a winter break, which is scheduled to run from December 21st to January 11th. The league`s calendar maintains its symmetrical format, meaning the fixtures in the second half of the season mirror those in the first half, with home and away venues reversed. The 34th and final matchday is anticipated to be a thrilling conclusion to the campaign.
Furthermore, the return of Hamburger SV and 1. FC Köln to the top flight reignites several passionate derby contests. These include the historic North Derby with Werder Bremen and the Rhine Derbies involving Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Mönchengladbach. The league has also highlighted the dates for other significant rivalries throughout the season.
Major Bundesliga Derbies
- Der Klassiker (Bayern Munich vs. Borussia Dortmund)
- Hamburg Derby (Hamburger SV vs. FC St. Pauli)
- North Derby (Hamburger SV vs. Werder Bremen)
- Rhine Derby (Bayer Leverkusen vs. 1. FC Köln)
- 1. FC Köln vs. Borussia Mönchengladbach
