FC Köln is celebrating the official start of the new season on Saturday, August 1, 2026, with a major fan event on the stadium forecourts. At the same time, the U21 team will play their first competitive match of the new Regionalliga West season. The first team presents itself to the fans while the youth team takes on SC Wiedenbrück.
What can fans expect at the season opener?
Starting at 11:11 a.m., the program begins with a welcome by the stadium announcers. Highlights include the team presentation with the joint anthem at 2:50 p.m., performances by Eko Fresh and the Domstürmer, and an autograph session with the first team and women's team. There will also be a new FC fan village, bouncy castles, and special tours of the Rhein-Energie-Stadion.
Why is Saturday particularly important for the U21 team?
The FC Köln U21 team starts the Regionalliga West season under new coach Manuel Hartmann. Hartmann, who succeeded Evangelos Sbonias, will make his competitive debut on Saturday against SC Wiedenbrück. The match kicks off at 2 p.m. at the Franz-Kremer-Stadion. The team is entering the season with ambition, with talent development being the top priority.
Which talents will the U21 miss at the start of the season?
Several young players, including goalkeeper Martin James (18) and striker Jonathan Friemel (19), are still with the first team at training camp. They will also play in Friday's friendly against Hertha BSC (12 p.m.) in Sankt Johann. The U21 will therefore have to do without some of its hottest talents.
What's next for FC Köln?
After the season opener and the U21 match, the first team's next competitive game is on the horizon. FC Köln will face Borussia Mönchengladbach away on February 20, 2027. Preparations for the new Bundesliga season are in full swing.
