1. FC Köln

1. FC Köln, is a German professional football club based in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia. The club was formed in 1948

1. FC Köln 2024–25 squad list

Seasons
2024-25

1. Fußball-Club Köln 01/07 e. V., commonly known as 1. FC Köln or FC Cologne, is a German professional football club based in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia. The club was formed in 1948 through the merger of Kölner Ballspiel-Club 1901 and SpVgg Sülz 07. It has since become one of Germany’s most recognizable football institutions, with a passionate fanbase and a rich history.

Currently, 1. FC Köln competes in the 2. Bundesliga, the second tier of German football, aiming for a return to the Bundesliga.

Stadium & Facilities

  • Home Ground: RheinEnergieStadion
  • Location: Cologne, Germany
  • Capacity: 50,000 spectators
  • Notable Features:
    • One of Germany’s most atmospheric stadiums
    • Regularly hosts international matches and major events

The RheinEnergieStadion is an iconic venue where 1. FC Köln’s passionate supporters create an electrifying matchday atmosphere.

Club Identity & Playing Style

  • Club Colors: Red & White
  • Mascot: Hennes, the club’s beloved live goat mascot
  • Playing Philosophy:
    • Attacking football with high pressing
    • Strong team spirit and work ethic
    • Reliance on youth development and homegrown talent

Köln is known for its exciting, offensive-minded football, often taking an aggressive approach, even against stronger opposition.

Historic Moments & Achievements

  • Bundesliga Champions (1963–64, 1977–78): 1. FC Köln won the inaugural Bundesliga title in 1963–64 and secured another league triumph in 1977–78.
  • DFB-Pokal Winners (1967–68, 1976–77, 1977–78): The club has lifted the German Cup three times, underlining its status as a domestic powerhouse.
  • European Success:
    • UEFA Cup Finalists (1985–86) – Köln reached the final but fell short of European glory.
    • Regular participation in European competitions, including the Champions League and Europa League over the decades.
  • Recent Bundesliga Promotions:
    • The club has bounced between the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga multiple times, with its latest relegation in 2024 marking another challenge.

Despite ups and downs, Köln’s history is filled with success, resilience, and unforgettable moments.

Rivalries & Key Matches

  • Rhein Derby vs. Borussia Mönchengladbach: One of Germany’s most intense rivalries, fueled by decades of competitive clashes.
  • Matches vs. Bayer Leverkusen: A regional rivalry featuring two of North Rhine-Westphalia’s biggest clubs.
  • Encounters with Borussia Dortmund & Bayern Munich: Classic matchups that have often defined Bundesliga seasons.

Köln’s rivalries add to the club’s rich tradition and passionate following.

Notable Players & Legends

  • Wolfgang Overath: A club icon and 1974 World Cup winner with Germany.
  • Lukas Podolski: One of Köln’s most famous modern players, known for his incredible left foot and deep love for the club.
  • Pierre Littbarski: A technical genius who starred for Köln in the 1980s.
  • Jonas Hector: A recent club captain and symbol of loyalty, having spent most of his career at Köln.

Köln has produced and attracted world-class talent, cementing its status as a top German football club.

The Future of 1. FC Köln

  1. FC Köln is determined to:
  • Secure promotion back to the Bundesliga and establish itself in the top tier.
  • Strengthen its youth academy to develop the next generation of stars.
  • Improve financial stability to compete with Germany’s elite clubs.
  • Enhance fan engagement and club culture, ensuring the city of Cologne remains a footballing hub.

With a loyal fanbase, strong football culture, and ambitious leadership, Köln is focused on returning to its former glory.

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