Fallen Giants Hamburg Make Their Comeback to the Bundesliga After Seven Seasons in the Second Division

The once-mighty German club Hamburg secured automatic promotion back to the Bundesliga following a dominant 6-1 victory against struggling Ulm on Saturday, marking their return after a seven-year hiatus.

As the final whistle blew, jubilant supporters in the 57,000-capacity Volksparkstadion surged onto the pitch to join the players in celebration.

Hamburg, one of only three German teams to have lifted the European Cup—now known as the Champions League—and a six-time domestic league champion, faced the unprecedented disappointment of being relegated for the first time in their history in 2018.

With promotion within reach, Hamburg found themselves down 1-0 early on as Ulm’s Tom Gaal struck within the first seven minutes. However, they equalised just three minutes later thanks to a goal from Ludovit Reis.

After Ulm missed a penalty in the 36th minute, Hamburg regained control with two quickfire goals just before half-time from Ransford-Yeboah Koenigsdoerffer and Davie Selke.

Ulm then conceded an own goal from Philipp Strompf shortly after the break, and Koenigsdoerffer added another to his tally. Daniel Elfadli sealed the deal with a goal four minutes from time, leading Hamburg back to the top tier after 2,555 days.

Despite substantial resources that exceed many competitors in the top tier, Hamburg had struggled to secure their return, finishing fourth on three occasions and third twice in recent years.

This impressive resurgence has been guided by rookie coach Merlin Polzin, 34, a native of Hamburg who grew up a passionate fan of the club.

“We’ve experienced some challenging setbacks as a team, but we’ve managed to bounce back every time,” Polzin stated before the match.

“That gives me a tremendously positive feeling and confidence that we can turn tonight into a truly unforgettable evening.”

This commanding win propelled Hamburg one point clear of FC Köln at the top of the 2. Bundesliga table.

Köln, who were relegated last season, must secure at least a point in their upcoming match to join Hamburg in the Bundesliga.

In other Saturday action, Holstein Kiel and Bochum were both confirmed as relegated from the top division.

Ulm’s defeat also confirms their relegation to the third tier, alongside Jahn Regensburg.