Berlin (AFP) - The final match of the German Cup competition will remain at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin until at least 2030, after reaching an agreement to extend hosting with the state authorities, according to what the German Football Association announced Thursday.
Published on: 05/02/2026 - 14:31
The final has been held in Berlin since 1985, that is, before the reunification of Germany.
It was widely expected to extend the existing agreement, but the German Federation demanded improvements to the entrance gates to the stadium, which can accommodate about 74,000 spectators and was originally built to host the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
The site currently has only two entrance gates, which has repeatedly caused delays, especially during the final matches of the cup.
In the 2025 German Cup final between Stuttgart and Arminia Bielefeld, some fans from both sides had to wait 90 minutes to get in.
German newspaper Bild reported that federation officials feared friction between fans and security personnel.
The Berlin authorities promised to improve the infrastructure around the stadium, including “expanding the southern entrance to facilitate fans’ access and reduce waiting times,” according to the statement.
German Football Association President Bernd Neuendorf said that holding the final in Berlin is "an integral part of German football and a real highlight for fans and clubs."
Before 1985, the final match was held in neutral stadiums in various West German cities, including Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Hanover and Dusseldorf.
The final match of this season will be held on May 23.
© 2026 AFP
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