FC St. Pauli: A Favorite in the 2nd Bundesliga, but Not Alone

The new season of the 2nd Bundesliga kicks off with Holstein Kiel and FC St. Pauli as favorites. The article highlights the chances of both teams and their significance in the league race.

7 Aug 2026

Updated 17 Aug 2026 By Theo Hartmann · senior correspondent

The new season of the 2nd Bundesliga kicks off on Friday, August 7th, and with it comes the hopes of many fans for a successful league campaign. Two teams stand out: Holstein Kiel and FC St. Pauli. While Kiel is seen as the clear favorite due to its experience and strength in both attack and defense, FC St. Pauli holds a unique position in the league.

Holstein Kiel - The Clear Favorite

Holstein Kiel is regarded as the top contender for the title with its wealth of experience and robust performance in both attacking and defensive play. The team has consistently delivered impressive results over recent years, solidifying their status as frontrunners.

FC St. Pauli - Unique in the League

FC St. Pauli is renowned for its unconventional culture and strong ties to its fans. Despite having a smaller financial base, the club has repeatedly produced surprising results, making it one of the most intriguing teams in the league race.

The season promises many exciting moments, and the supporters of Holstein Kiel and FC St. Pauli are looking forward to a successful start in the new campaign.