Severe Weather Disrupts Bundesliga Matches

Inclement weather continues to significantly impact the anticipated re-launch of the Bundesliga as January 2026 approaches. Particularly hard hit is the northern region of Germany, known as the German Hanseatic area. A winter storm named “Elli” has already led to the cancellation of home games for both FC St. Pauli and Werder Bremen. As a result, several Bundesliga matches scheduled for this weekend are also at risk of being postponed.

Current Overview of Match Postponements

This disruption is not entirely unexpected. In the pre-pandemic era, Bundesliga resumed its schedule typically in late January. The recently shortened winter break—which previously lasted a full month—has inevitably contributed to the likelihood of such weather-related interruptions.

Bundesliga Match Scenarios for the Weekend

Get German Football News brings you the latest updates on all nine Bundesliga fixtures scheduled for this weekend. As various locations across Germany struggle with snow and hazardous conditions, the situation may evolve rapidly.

Eintracht Frankfurt vs. Borussia Dortmund (Scheduled to Proceed)

Tonight’s opening match for matchday 16 will occur as planned. While heavy snowfall is approaching the RheinMain area, it is expected to arrive after the completion of the match at the “Waldstadion.” The stadium’s location in a less congested “forest corridor” ensures that fans can leave safely despite challenging weather conditions.

SC Freiburg vs. Hamburger SV (Likely to Proceed)

In Freiburg-in-Breisgau, often termed the “sunniest region of Germany,” winter snowfall is not uncommon. Currently, the area is poised to encounter the southern edge of the storm system. Saturday’s weather forecast, however, indicates predominantly heavy rain, with temperatures expected to drop further on Sunday, potentially leading to snow accumulation in Baden.

Werder Bremen vs. Hoffenheim (Postponed)

The city-state of Bremen is taking precautions in anticipation of the storm’s impact, leading to the cancellation of the match. The DFL confirmed the decision today, noting that a gathering of over 50,000 spectators is deemed unsafe at the Weser Stadion under current conditions.

1. FC Union Berlin vs. FSV Mainz 05 (Likely to Proceed)

Despite significant snowfall already affecting Köpenick, club workers are diligently working to clear the snow around Stadion An der Alten Försterei. The German national weather service has lifted severe weather warnings for Berlin, and train services to Berlin-Brandenburg are set to resume on Saturday morning.

FC St. Pauli vs. RB Leipzig (Postponed)

Hamburg, similar to Bremen, braces for the storm’s direct impact. It appears that “Elli” will sweep through from the south toward the English Channel, whereas Berlin, eastern Germany, and the northern peninsula may be spared for now. While places like Berlin and Dresden have already witnessed snowfall, the worst of the weather seems to be subsiding.

1. FC Heidenheim vs. 1. FC Köln (Likely to Proceed)

In the vicinity of Heidenheim an der Brenz, weather conditions remain relatively subdued. The area is experiencing sporadic light snowfall and intermittent rain. Current temperatures suggest that any snowfall will likely not accumulate significantly, allowing the match against Köln to go ahead despite less-than-ideal conditions.

Bayer 04 Leverkusen vs. VfB Stuttgart (Likely to be Postponed)

Efforts are underway in Leverkusen, where staff and volunteers are clearing the existing snow. Unfortunately, the anticipated heavy snowfall from the south suggests that this match may also have to be postponed, forcing both teams to delay their starters for the new year.

Borussia Mönchengladbach vs. FC Augsburg (Likely to Proceed)

Despite the proximity of Leverkusen and Mönchengladbach (just 66 km apart), Gladbach is prepared to host one of Sunday’s early matches. There is ample time to manage the expected snowfall, and rising temperatures along with rain may help mitigate the accumulation.

Bayern München vs. VfL Wolfsburg (Likely to Proceed)

Light snowfall is anticipated in Munich, which may result in some accumulation; however, the storm front is expected to miss Bayern’s home ground, allowing this match to proceed as scheduled.