1. FC Union Berlin will play their home games in the Champions League in the Olympic Stadium and not in their own stadium at the Alte Försterei. Club President Dirk Zingler informed the members of the Bundesliga soccer club of this difficult decision in an email.
“I understand the disappointment of those who would have liked to see Champions League games at the An der Alten Försterei stadium and would have even given up their own ticket. Essentially, with our decision, we have the opportunity to be able to offer all Unioners tickets for these games , asked about the possibility of playing these games in front of a rather small group of Unioners at the old forester’s office,” the letter said.
Up to 74,000 fans in the Olympic Stadium
The stadium at the Alte Försterei can only accommodate a good 22,000 visitors, most of whom are standing. More than 74,000 fans can follow the games in the Olympic Stadium. Games in the Union Arena would have been possible, however, as UEFA extended a program that also allows standing room in the premier class.
“Champions League for all Unioners – we let ourselves be guided by this idea and we will make sure that as many people as possible can afford these games,” promised Zingler.
Economically, the move will probably bring the Irons additional income in the mid-single-digit million range for the three group games alone. In 2021, Union had already played its home games in the Conference League in the Olympic Stadium, as UEFA did not allow standing room at the time. The four home games in the Europa League took place in the stadium at the Alte Försterei last season.
The club from East Berlin had sensationally secured participation in the premier class in its fourth Bundesliga year as fourth in the table. The draw for the group stage will take place in Monaco on August 31st. The first matchday is scheduled for September 19th and 20th.
