In a crucial decision for the future of SSV Ulm 1846 Fußball, the city council of Ulm unanimously approved a significant renovation project for the historic Donaustadion. This modernization plan, which amounts to a financial commitment of up to €30 million, aims to ensure that the stadium meets the standards required for the team to continue competing in the second division of German football.
The decision came after a series of negotiations and was crucial as the SSV Ulm had to prove by March 15, 2025, that they were in compliance with the Deutsche Fußball Liga (DFL) requirements for the upcoming season. The club submitted the necessary documentation to the DFL a day before this deadline, on March 14, 2025, with the council's approval being a key prerequisite.
On the evening of March 19, 2025, the city council's approval green-lighted a plan that envisions maintaining the stadium's multi-functional status, which means it will continue to host not only football but also athletics and community sports. This decision is part of a broader commitment to ensure that local sports needs are met while giving the football club a fighting chance to avoid relegation.
Ulms Oberbürgermeister Martin Ansbacher expressed his satisfaction with the decision, stating, "This is a strong commitment from the city to football. Now it’s up to the club to focus on staying in the league. We have done our part." Underlining the urgency of the renovation, he noted that the construction work is expected to commence swiftly and will proceed in phases, allowing operations to continue during the renovation process.
The primary goal of the renovation is to guarantee compliance with the DFL regulations, which stipulate that all spectator areas must be covered. As a result, the plan includes replacing both the north and south stands entirely, as well as upgrades to the main stand, all at an estimated net cost of approximately €17 million. These modifications are aimed at creating a better experience for fans and fulfilling necessary safety standards.
Financially, the city of Ulm will take the lead on funding the renovation, covering the initial costs upfront to allow for immediate action on the project. However, SSV Ulm will gradually reimburse approximately 75% of the renovation costs back to the city over the next ten years, irrespective of the division in which they find themselves in future seasons.
While the city has taken significant steps to facilitate these plans, the club's aspiration to develop a dedicated football stadium remains. The football club hopes to have its own football arena in the future, and the city has expressed willingness to assist in locating suitable land for this potential development. However, the construction of a new stadium will ultimately fall to the club to finance independently.
SSV Ulm 1846 Fußball remains in a precarious position as it fights to maintain its place in the second division. While this renovation project will contribute to enhancing their home ground, the club's survival in the league is critical. The approval received from the city council is seen as a vote of confidence, necessary for the team to secure its license to play in the next season, which largely depends on the club's performance on the pitch. With this support, hopes are high that the team will flourish, backed by a city that is demonstrating its commitment to local sports.
As the club continues to strive for athletic and competitive success, the city’s investment will also serve to strengthen community ties through sports, benefiting not just the club but the residents of Ulm as well. With new infrastructure, the club can aim not only to survive but to thrive as an essential part of the fabric of Ulm’s sporting life.
