Bundesliga Cancellations: Which Games at Risk?

Bundesliga Braces for Wintry Restart as Storm “Elli” Threatens Matchday 16

The German Bundesliga is set too return from its winter break this weekend amid the most severe cold snap of the season, placing the league and its clubs on high alert for potential game cancellations. Only one match is currently expected to begin with temperatures above freezing.

The league’s governing body, the DFL, is closely monitoring conditions, particularly in the north and east of the country, where exceptional weather is anticipated. Despite the challenging forecast, a senior official stated on Thursday morning that the DFL is not currently anticipating any widespread cancellations for matchday 16.

did you know? – The Bundesliga’s winter break typically lasts around four weeks, allowing players to rest and recover during the coldest months. This year’s return is particularly challenging due to the severity of Storm “Elli.”

Storm “Elli” Impacts Northern Cities

The approaching storm, dubbed “elli,” is expected to bring heavy snowfall to Berlin, Bremen, and Hamburg on Friday night, creating significant logistical hurdles. While the Friday evening match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Borussia Dortmund appears secure – Eintracht Frankfurt has received positive feedback from local authorities – the games in the aforementioned northern cities are under increased scrutiny.

Focus is shifting to ensuring both playable pitch conditions and safe access routes for spectators.Union Berlin has proactively requested that its fan clubs bring snow shovels to help clear the area around the Alte Försterei stadium. Similarly, SV Werder Bremen is deploying 50 additional emergency personnel to assist with snow removal on saturday. FC St. Pauli in Hamburg recently conducted a test match against Werder Bremen where fans actively participated in clearing snow, demonstrating a collaborative approach to managing the conditions.

Pro tip – Fans attending matches in snowy conditions should dress in layers, wear waterproof footwear, and allow extra time for travel due to potential delays. Check club websites for updates.

Southern Matches Face Extreme Cold

Further south, snowfall is forecast for Freiburg and Heidenheim on Saturday, raising concerns about the playability of the fields. The ultimate decision rests with the referees, who have the authority to postpone matches deemed unplayable. Should a game be canceled, it will be rescheduled for a later date.

The coldest match of the weekend is slated for Munich, where temperatures are predicted to plummet to -9 degrees Celsius at kickoff on Sunday evening, with further declines expected throughout the game. Organizers anticipate a crowd of 75,000 spectators braving the frigid conditions, making it the largest attendance of the matchday.

The Bundesliga’s return promises to be a test of resilience for both players and fans alike, as the league navigates a challenging winter landscape.

Why is this happening? Storm “Elli” is bringing unusually severe winter weather to germany, impacting the Bundesliga’s return from its winter break.

Who is affected? The Bundesliga, its clubs, players, and fans are all affected, particularly those in northern and eastern Germany, and those attending the Munich match.

What is being done? The DFL is monitoring conditions, clubs are preparing pitches and access routes (including fan-led snow clearing), and referees have the authority to postpone games. Emergency personnel are being deployed.

How did it end? As of this report, no widespread cancellations have been announced. The situation remains fluid, with the outcome dependent on the severity of the weather and the decisions of referees. Rescheduled dates will be resolute if games are postponed.

Author: Christian Link
Source: The wrong 9
Weather data: wetter.com