FC St. Pauli Secures Land Lease for Expansion of Training Complex: A Legacy for the Future
The path to the expansion of Fußball-Bundesligist FC St. Pauli’s training ground has been cleared. A new youth performance center is set to be constructed on the grounds in Hamburg’s Niendorf district. The financial authority and the club have signed a corresponding leasehold agreement.
As announced by FC St. Pauli and the Senate, the lease will be granted for 60 years under standard conditions. The club has been granted an extension option until December 31, 2110, ensuring the club’s access to the facility for generations to come. 2110 would mark the 200th anniversary of FC St. Pauli’s founding.
"The expansion is a crucial future project for FC St. Pauli, but it is also an immense undertaking," said President Oke Göttlich.
According to FC St. Pauli, the expansion will meet the current requirements of the Deutsche Fußball Liga (DFL). Seven state-of-the-art training pitches and three functional buildings are currently planned. The training and youth performance center will be integrated into the existing urban and landscape setting, preserving the natural beauty of the area.
A Milestone for Youth Development
The new training complex will provide a world-class environment for FC St. Pauli’s youth players, fostering their development and preparing them for the highest levels of football. The club has a long-standing tradition of nurturing young talent, and the expanded facilities will enhance this commitment.
"This is a big step for us," said Sport Director Andreas Bornemann. "The new training complex will give our youth players the best possible conditions to develop their potential and take the next step in their careers."
Sustainability at the Forefront
Sustainability is a key consideration in the design of the new training complex. The buildings will be energy-efficient, and the landscaping will incorporate native plant species to promote biodiversity. The complex will also meet the latest DFL sustainability standards.
A Legacy for Generations
The lease extension until 2110 is a testament to the Senate’s recognition of FC St. Pauli’s importance to Hamburg and German football. The club has a rich history and a loyal fan base, and the new training complex will serve as a legacy for generations of players, coaches, and supporters.
"This is more than just a training ground," said Göttlich. "It is a symbol of our club’s commitment to excellence and our deep roots in the community. We are grateful to the Senate for their support, and we look forward to building a bright future for FC St. Pauli at our new home in Niendorf."
Construction Timeline
The construction of the new training complex is expected to begin in 2023, with completion slated for 2025. The project will be funded through a combination of club resources and external investments.
Benefits for the Community
In addition to benefiting FC St. Pauli, the new training complex will have a positive impact on the surrounding community. The project will create jobs, boost the local economy, and provide a new recreational amenity for Niendorf residents.
A Center of Excellence
The expanded training complex will establish FC St. Pauli as a center of excellence for youth football development in Germany. The club’s commitment to providing the best possible environment for its players will undoubtedly bear fruit in the years to come, producing future stars who will represent the club and the city of Hamburg with distinction.
