Football Tickets - Germany DFB-Pokal - Season 2025/2026

DFB-Pokal in Germany: everything about the current edition – round schedule, rules, and useful tips for tickets

What is the DFB-Pokal and why does it generate so much interest among fans

• The DFB-Pokal is the most famous cup competition in German football and one of the most esteemed in Europe. It is played in a simple knockout system, which is why it is known for surprises and historic "underdog" stories. Every match brings tension as it decides who stays in or is eliminated, and even the biggest favorites are not safe when they play away against lower-league teams in the intimate atmosphere of smaller stadiums. Traditionally, the final is held in Berlin, which gives the tournament additional symbolism and prestige. Fan interest is also driven by topics such as the schedule of rounds, the draw, referees, VAR, disciplinary matters, and – as expected – the high demand for tickets, especially in the later stages and for the final showdown at the Olympic Stadium.
• A total of 64 clubs participate in the first round, and the system is designed to open the door to the big stage for smaller communities and lower-league clubs. This nurtures the idea of football being accessible to all – from Bundesliga giants to regional winners, who reach the biggest stage through their own cup qualifications. Due to such a wide range of participants, the match schedule covers the whole of Germany and often creates strong local euphoria. For fans, this means the "cup atmosphere" spreads from north to south and from west to east, with each region getting its heroes and memorable moments.
• Besides prestige and playing against the best, the competition also brings very concrete benefits to the clubs: visibility on the national stage, opportunities to fill stadiums, and a stable model for distributing prize money by round. All this helps lower-league clubs to progress and further invest in infrastructure and player development. Fans also follow the dynamics of ticket prices and sales conditions, especially for matches with large followings of away fans.

Competition structure and how clubs enter the draw

• Participant structure: there are 64 teams in the first-round draw. All clubs from the top two tiers (Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga) participate, along with the most successful teams from the 3. Liga, and representatives of the regional cup winners (Verbandspokal). This composition combines the professional top tier with the semi-professional and amateur sectors – which is precisely why the cup brings so many "small" vs. "big" matchups.
• Draw and home advantage: in the first two rounds, two seeding pots are used (the so-called "two drums"). The first pot contains clubs from lower leagues (winners of regional cups and the best-placed teams from the 3. Liga, along with some clubs from the 2. Bundesliga according to the rules), and the second pot contains the remaining professional teams. Clubs from the first pot generally have the right to play at home, ensuring sporting balance and an authentic cup experience in smaller stadiums. From the round of 16 onwards, the draw is conducted from a single pot: if a lower-league team meets a professional one, the lower-league team is the host; in all other combinations, the first club drawn is the host.
• Match rules: one match is played per round. If there is no winner after 90 minutes, extra time is played (2×15 minutes), and if it is still a draw, a penalty shootout follows. This format makes every duel a potential thriller and a golden opportunity for fan spectacles – which is why the demand for tickets for the DFB-Pokal often peaks as the knockout moments approach.
• Disciplinary rules and substitutions: the standards of cup competitions in Germany apply. Clubs have a limited number of substitutions and "windows" for substitutions, with an additional possibility in extra time. The system of accumulating yellow cards and suspensions is clearly defined, and a direct red card results in an automatic suspension and the possibility of a stricter punishment.

Calendar: when the cup rounds are played (without specifying years)

• Start in August: the first round is usually played in mid to late August, with possible additional dates at the end of the month. This is the period when fans first look for tickets for the DFB-Pokal in the season – especially when Bundesliga teams play away against lower-league sides and when "small miracles" are created in a single evening.
• Second round in late autumn: the end of October brings the filtering of contenders – big teams often become more cautious then, while lower-league teams are still "chasing dreams." During this period, the demand for tickets for the German cup is very high in cities that get to host matches against renowned opponents.
• Round of 16 in early December: the end of the calendar year traditionally belongs to the round of 16. Cold weather and a winter atmosphere often create a specific mood in the stadiums, and matches are sometimes played under floodlights on weekdays, which further increases the interest for tickets among local fans.
• Quarter-finals in February: after the winter break, the cup returns with double matchdays in early and mid-February. Here, the favorites are already emerging, so tickets for the DFB-Pokal in this segment often sell out as soon as the club announces information about their release.
• Semi-finals in April: the spring climax brings two matches that decide who goes to Berlin. The hunt for tickets for the semi-finals is extremely fierce then, and clubs almost regularly introduce priority lists for members and season ticket holders.
• Final in Berlin, in May: the final at the Olympic Stadium is a symbol of this cup's tradition. The demand for tickets for the final in Berlin is the highest throughout the competition, and ticket distribution takes place through multiple channels (finalist clubs, the federation's central platform, official initiatives, etc.), with strict quotas and application procedures. Due to the limited stadium capacity, interest regularly exceeds the available places many times over.
• The draw: the draw is usually held on Sunday evening after each stage. This is the moment when fans immediately check possible dates and venues and follow club announcements about ticket distribution.

VAR, referees, and competition standards

• VAR in the cup: the Video Assistant Referee technology is applied from the round of 16 onwards. In the earlier stages, the goal is to maintain equal conditions at all stadiums and provide an equal chance to clubs that do not have top-tier infrastructure. This practice equalizes the criteria and reduces logistical differences between professional and amateur environments.
• Discipline and fairness: the referee delegation schedule, home advantage criteria, and clearly defined competition rules make the cup transparent. The system of suspensions for yellow and red cards is designed to preserve sporting fairness and the safety of all participants.

Tickets: demand, priorities, and useful notes (without sales claims)

• Demand: already in the first round, matches against attractive opponents can sell out smaller stadiums in a very short time. As the competition progresses towards winter and spring, the interest in tickets for the DFB-Pokal grows – especially for the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final. For the final in Berlin, interest traditionally exceeds capacity many times over, so strict quotas are applied for the finalist clubs, with separate application procedures.
• Priorities and distribution: clubs usually give priority to members and season ticket holders in the early stages of distribution. This is followed by the general public, often in limited waves. In case of increased demand, lotteries or "waiting lists" are activated. For high-risk matches, purchase conditions may include personalized tickets and per-person limits.
• Categories and prices: prices depend on the stage of the competition, the opponent, the stadium, and the seating category (e.g., central stands, corners, upper tier, standing areas where permitted). For matches of greater significance and against elite opponents, average prices are higher, and clubs may adjust their policy depending on home advantage and security assessment. It is crucial for fans to follow the official announcements of the host club and the clear dates for ticket sales.
• Away sectors: the quota for away fans in the cup is standardized according to the federation's rules and security protocols. For attractive duels, the away ticket package often sells out immediately, so relying on membership in fan clubs and communication with the club proves to be the most reliable way to get information about availability.
• Final at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin: the final has a special regime. As a rule, a centralized application is carried out through the platforms of the federation and the clubs, with the allocation of contingents to the finalists and a limited open part. Competitors with large fan bases usually conduct internal scoring or priority waves, and fans are advised to register in a timely manner, check deadlines, and prepare personal data for possible verification.

Competitive and historical context (records, stadiums, European tickets)

• Record holder for most trophies: the most successful club in the history of this competition holds the absolute record for the number of cups won. This fact explains why matches against the "record holder" are often ranked among the most sought-after for tickets for the German cup, regardless of whether the game is played in a small town or a large metropolis.
• Final in Berlin as a tradition: the final match has been continuously held in the capital, at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin. The iconic arena and the ceremonial character of the final create a unique experience. For fans, this means that the demand for tickets for the final in Berlin reaches its peak long before the exact time and operational details are announced.
• European prize: the winner of the cup secures a place in a European competition (UEFA Europa League), which further increases the importance of the cup. That is why clubs often strategically "target" the DFB-Pokal as a realistic path to the international stage, and fan interest follows this goal – especially in the final rounds, when every ticket becomes part of a possible European story.
• Stadium context: home venues are spread across Germany – from large Bundesliga arenas to compact city stadiums. This brings a diverse range of prices and categories, but also logistical challenges (transportation, accommodation, security protocols). In practice, clubs publish infographics with sector layouts, entry instructions, and stadium entry rules in a timely manner, and fans look for the "ideal" combination of visibility, price, and proximity to the fan core.

How to plan a trip to a match: practical tips for fans

• Early preparation: follow club announcements immediately after the draw. In the first hours after the schedule is announced, an online rush for tickets usually begins, so it is useful to have user accounts prepared, data updated, and, where applicable, confirmed membership.
• Flexibility with dates and cities: as the rounds are spread throughout August, October, December, February, April, and May, flexibility makes it easier to find a place in the stands. If one stand is sold out, there are often alternatives in the upper tiers or side sectors with a different pricing policy.
• Security and entry rules: the DFB-Pokal follows strict security protocols. Check the permissible dimensions of flags, rules for drums, banners, and pyrotechnics (where they are prohibited), and entry conditions for children. Personalized tickets imply identification checks at the entrances – do not forget a valid document.
• Travel within Germany: as home venues are spread across the country, it is useful to plan transportation in advance (train, bus, flight) and arrive at the stadium at least 60–90 minutes before kickoff. In some cities, a "fan march" or controlled corridors are organized, so follow the logistical info maps of the clubs and local police.
• Weather and clothing: autumn and winter dates often mean low temperatures and wind, especially in open stands. Bring layered clothing, a hat, and gloves, and in case of rain, seat covers. This detail often makes the difference in the enjoyment of watching 120 minutes of football and a potential penalty shootout.

Why tickets for the DFB-Pokal are a special category of demand

• One match decides: unlike the league rhythm, the cup offers "all or nothing" in 90 (or 120) minutes. That's why tickets for the DFB-Pokal are often more sought after than for an average league round – fans want to be part of an unrepeatable evening.
• The romance of cup upsets: when amateurs get the chance to host a giant, the city lives for that day. Tickets become a local "currency" – cafes and streets are full, it raises the club's profile, and creates memories that last for years.
• Berlin as a magnet: the final in the capital has a cult status. Even neutral fans target the final for the atmosphere, choreographies, and festive ambiance. Due to limited capacity, the "hunt" for tickets for the final in Berlin begins much earlier than one would expect.
• European stakes: entry into a continental competition by winning the cup further increases interest. Clubs and fans are aware that the trophy opens the door to the international stage, which makes every ticket in the final rounds a ticket to possible history.

DFB-Pokal in Germany: advanced guide for fans – tickets, travel, and stadium rules

Advanced ticket strategies: how priority waves work and why timing is crucial

• Release waves: for DFB-Pokal matches, tickets are usually released in several waves. The first wave is often reserved for members and season ticket holders, followed by a limited public distribution. This model favors loyalty and is predictable: fans who regularly support the club usually get access first. For standard matches, the quantity in public sale can be solid, while for derbies and the final stages, it remains minimal.
• How to track the timing: the draw schedule and subsequent confirmation of exact kickoff times are often announced within a short window after the draw. Because of this, interest in tickets for the DFB-Pokal spikes immediately after the date is confirmed. The rule is simple: as soon as the schedule is out, the online distribution systems are at their busiest.
• Embrace flexibility: if tickets for the German cup for a specific stand are sold out, look for alternative sectors (upper tier, corner seats, standing areas where permitted). Price differences are often significant, and the visibility and acoustics in some "side" sectors can be surprisingly good.
• Personalized tickets: for high-risk matches, tickets are sometimes personalized. This means checks of name, ID, and possibly additional data at the entrance. Plan your arrival time and have an identification document with your ticket to avoid delays.
• Away sector: quotas for away fans are standardized according to rules and security protocols. For attractive duels, tickets for the away sector sell out immediately; information is usually published through the communication channels of clubs and fan associations. If you are traveling, the priority is to coordinate transportation and ticket collection.
• Final in Berlin: the final at the Olympic Stadium has a special distribution regime. Contingents are divided between the finalist clubs and a limited central part with additional application rules. Due to limited capacity and huge interest, tickets for the final in Berlin are traditionally the most sought-after, and one should count on greater competition and stricter data verification.
• When demand "breaks": the most pronounced jump in interest occurs around the round of 16 and quarter-finals, when it is clear who the potential contenders for Berlin are. During this period, tickets for the DFB-Pokal become part of the story of a possible trophy and European qualification, which further motivates fans.
• Avoid resale: demand creates a gray area – be careful with unverified sources. If a ticket is personalized, resale can leave you without entry to the stadium. Always count on barcode and identity checks and specific organizer rules that may vary from stadium to stadium.

Schedule by month and night fixtures: how to smartly plan your trip and costs

• August and late August: the first round brings scattered fixtures during the middle and end of the month, and sometimes additional dates at the end of August due to the earlier commitments of some clubs. This is the period when lower-league teams get the chance to host favorites, so tickets for the German cup in smaller towns often disappear quickly.
• October: the second round usually falls at the end of October, often on weekdays in the evening. Night matches create a specific atmosphere, but also traffic jams – plan to arrive at least 60–90 minutes before, especially if you are going through city traffic.
• Early December: the round of 16 closes the calendar year. Temperatures drop, and tickets for stadiums without a roof require layered clothing, hats, gloves, and warmer footwear. If extra time and a penalty shootout are possible, you will spend longer in the stands than expected.
• February: the quarter-finals are divided into two blocks, in early and mid-month. The club's success in the league and cup affects the mood and demand – popular opponents put pressure on distribution systems and increase the interest of the local community.
• April: the semi-finals traditionally bring an explosion of interest for tickets for the semi-finals. Home advantage becomes key: if a lower-league team hosts a giant, the city practically lives for that event, and hospitality capacities fill up weeks in advance.
• May: the final in Berlin is the culmination of the whole story. The arrival procedure, gate opening times, and security protocols are detailed; follow instructions on prohibited items, help points, and public transport routes. Tickets for the final in Berlin are often divided into categories with significant differences in price and viewing angles.

Stadiums and host cities: from intimate arenas to large metropolises

• Variety of capacities: the DFB-Pokal brings together compact stadiums of lower leagues and modern arenas of the top tier. In practice, this means that the experience in the stands is extremely different: smaller stadiums offer proximity to the pitch and loud fan cores, while larger arenas provide comfort, better infrastructure, and a greater choice of categories.
• Berlin as a symbol: the final in the capital has been part of the cup's identity for decades. The Olympic Stadium is known for its ceremonial atmosphere and choreographies in the stands. Because of this, fans plan their trip as soon as there are indications of who might reach the final, and the demand for tickets for the final in Berlin never subsides.
• Logistics: in smaller towns, traffic jams occur around access roads and parking lots. Additional security points, redirection of pedestrian corridors, and "fan marches" can extend the time it takes to reach the entrance. In metropolises, congestion is most pronounced around public transport hubs, especially after the match ends.
• Accommodation: for the semi-finals and final, accommodation availability quickly evaporates. Booking in advance reduces costs, and flexible rates help if there is a change in the date or time. In "cup weeks," cities have increased demand in the centers and zones along main transport routes.
• Family stands and accessibility: in Germany, family sectors and places for people with disabilities are standardly offered. Rules for escorts, elevators, and adapted toilets are published by the organizers for each stadium. If you are buying tickets for the DFB-Pokal with children, check the age rules and identification requirements.

Seating categories, standing areas, and price dynamics

• Categories: central stands, side sectors, upper tier, and – where permitted – standing terraces. Prices reflect visibility, distance from the pitch, and the popularity of the opponent. For high-profile matches, mid- and upper-tier categories sell out first, while standing areas attract fans who prefer atmosphere over comfort.
• Dynamic pricing: some clubs adjust prices depending on demand, time until the match, and the importance of the duel. In practice, this means that early buyers sometimes get a better price-to-quality ratio, especially for rounds before the semi-finals.
• Multi-match packages: occasionally, packages for two cup matches in a short period are offered. Although this is not the rule, it is worth following club announcements as such packages help with planning and savings, and they reserve seats in the same stand.
• Refunds and exchanges: in case of a schedule change, clubs sometimes approve a refund or exchange. However, the rules are strict and the deadlines are short. If the tickets are personalized, the transfer of rights is most often restricted.

Security protocols, entry rules, and stadium etiquette

• Permitted items: the dimensions of flags, poles, and banners are prescribed by the organizers. Drums and megaphones are regulated by special rules. Pyrotechnics and items that compromise safety are strictly prohibited. Checks at the entrance are multi-layered – plan for extra time.
• Entrance and perimeter: tickets often have an assigned entry zone (gate). Respecting this speeds up passage and relieves bottlenecks. The organizer may introduce temporary fences and corridors to separate fan groups, which is common for high-risk matches.
• Etiquette: standing terraces have their own rules for "living the match." If you prefer seating and a calmer experience, choose central or upper sectors. Respect the seats of other fans, and in shared sectors, avoid provocations and violations of the house rules.
• Leaving the stadium: after the match ends, short-term holds for the away sector are often introduced. Plan for a later departure from the parking lot and extra minutes to public transport stations.

VAR and refereeing: what you need to know about interventions and why they are not in all rounds

• From the round of 16 onwards: Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology is used from the round of 16 stage. This ensures uniform conditions in the later rounds, while respecting the infrastructure of smaller stadiums in the early rounds.
• Areas of intervention: standard – situations around goals (fouls, offsides, handball), penalty kicks, direct red cards, and mistaken identity of players. The threshold for intervention remains high: VAR is not a substitute for the referee, but a tool to correct "clear and obvious" errors.
• Why not earlier: in the first rounds, the hosts are often lower-league teams that do not have the same technological infrastructure. Due to the principle of equal conditions, the system is activated only from the moment when the prerequisites are uniform.

TV and broadcasts: free and subscription options in Germany

• Free-to-air broadcasts: a part of the matches from each round is broadcast on free national channels. These are matches of special interest, often with a focus on "cup stories" that have a wide audience.
• Subscription platforms: more complete coverage of the rounds is usually available through subscription service packages. This allows for watching multiple matches simultaneously and additional content such as studio analysis.
• Schedules and broadcast selection: exact times and information about broadcasts are usually published in a short interval after the draw. Follow the announcements to coordinate your travel plan and the possibility of watching other duels on the same day.

How to recognize an authentic ticket and reduce risk

• Digital formats: many organizers are switching to mobile barcodes or QR codes. Pay attention to download restrictions and transfer rules; sharing a screenshot is usually not a valid solution as systems use dynamic codes.
• Matching check: if the ticket is personalized, the name must match the ID. For group purchases, agree in advance who enters through which entrance and who holds all the tickets on one device, if required.
• Avoid "last minute" unverified offers: although tempting, the most common problem is being denied entry due to suspicion about the ticket's origin. Always count on the organizer having the right to void a ticket that violates the terms.

Planning travel in Germany for cup matches

• Train as the first choice: railways connect host cities with high frequency. For night fixtures, check the last departures and any track work. For the semi-finals and final, many lines are reinforced or offer additional carriages.
• Urban transport: in metropolises, use the subway and suburban railway, and avoid driving to the stadium itself. Parking spaces near the arenas fill up quickly, and exiting after the match can take time.
• Arrive early: for high-risk matches, the gates open earlier than usual. Arriving earlier reduces the risk of missing the start due to checks and crowds at the perimeter.
• Weather: autumn and winter dates require warm, layered clothing and waterproof footwear. For stands without a roof, bring a seat cover. In low temperatures, a "cup night" lasts longer due to possible extra time.

Fan culture and atmosphere: why tickets for the DFB-Pokal are a special category

• Cup upsets: the one-off knockout format creates an "all or nothing" mentality. That is precisely why tickets for the DFB-Pokal have a weight that league matches cannot always match – fans aim to be part of a story that can only happen once.
• Tifo and choreographies: the semi-finals and final often bring spectacular visual displays. Organizers and fan groups coordinate props, colors, and messages, so the coordination of entry and fan layout is even more important.
• Neutral spectators: the atmosphere of the final also attracts neutral football lovers who aim to buy tickets for the final in Berlin regardless of the favorites. In such a mix of sectors, respecting etiquette and house rules becomes even more important.

European dimension and club motivation

• Prize for the winner: the winner of the DFB-Pokal secures a place in a continental competition, which opens the way to international encounters. This gives the competition strategic weight for clubs aiming for the European stage through the cup.
• Impact on planning: as the rounds progress, teams time their form and rotate the squad with a view to the final. That's why fans try to secure tickets for the German cup earlier, especially if there is an objective path to the final.

Preparation for match day: a checklist

• Documents: prepare an identification document, especially for personalized tickets.
• Digital ticket: check the device's battery, apps, and the possibility of offline access. If the ticket requires activation, do it before arrival.
• Arrival: aim for 60–90 minutes before kickoff. Count on queues for security checks and crowds around catering points.
• Entrance marking: respect the sector and gate indicated on the ticket. This speeds up passage and relieves critical corridors.
• Gear: layered clothing, a hood or cap, gloves in winter, a seat cover if it's an open stand, and no prohibited items.

Frequently asked questions from fans about tickets and schedule

• When does the earliest demand start: immediately after the draw and the announcement of the schedule. This is the period when tickets for the DFB-Pokal disappear fastest, especially for duels against attractive opponents.
• Are there standing areas: at some stadiums, yes, in accordance with local rules. The atmosphere is more intense, and prices are usually more favorable. Inform yourself about restrictions and safety regulations.
• Are lotteries held: in case of great interest, yes. A lottery or waiting list distributes a small number of tickets in a fair model. The results are usually announced electronically.
• Why are some fixtures delayed: schedules are confirmed after coordination with broadcasters and security services. Due to multiple stakeholders, there is always a time lag between the draw and the announcement of the exact times.
• Can I enter with children: check the age rules and seating conditions. Family sectors offer advantages such as closer toilets and easier exit, but are usually limited in capacity.
• What if it snows or rains heavily: matches are played in all weather conditions except in extreme cases. Preparing clothing and footwear directly affects the experience of a match that can last up to 120 minutes and a penalty shootout.

How to stay informed without creating a "FOMO" effect

• Aligning sources: after the draw, follow official announcements about schedules and broadcasts – this is the moment when real demand is determined. Maintain a rational approach: don't buy the first available option if you are looking for a specific seat in the stands; wait for the next wave or category changes if you have time.
• Plan B and C: if tickets for the DFB-Pokal for the desired sector are sold out, consider alternatives nearby – sectors with similar visibility or diagonally opposite corners often have a good balance of price and view.
• Managing costs: travel and accommodation become more expensive as the date approaches. Flexible rates and early booking often mean concrete savings, especially for the semi-finals and final.

Why the DFB-Pokal remains a magnet for neutral fans

• One-off drama: the cup rhythm leaves no room for a second chance. That's why tickets for the German cup are also attractive to fans who do not follow a specific club – they want an experience that is not repeated.
• The symbolism of Berlin: the final combines tradition and modern football. Many travel exclusively for the ambiance of the Olympic Stadium and the ceremonial character of the evening, which further increases the interest in tickets for the final in Berlin.

Brief notes on discipline, substitutions, and suspensions

• Extra time and penalties: if there is no winner after 90 minutes, extra time follows, and then a penalty shootout. This affects the logistics of leaving the stadium, especially with late fixtures.
• Number of substitutions and windows: the standard is limited windows for changes with an additional possibility in extra time. Coaches tactically distribute substitutions to conserve energy for the finale.
• Suspensions: accumulated cards or a direct red card lead to penalties that are carried over to the next cup round. This can affect fans' expectations because the absence of a key player changes the picture of the duel.

In conclusion about planning (without a "summary" style conclusion)

• Proactivity: the biggest difference is made by being ready before the draw and the announcement of the schedule. Updated accounts, verified data, and an understanding of the distribution waves are key to timely entry into the system.
• Patience: at times of high demand, systems can be slower. Don't give up after the first error – systems often stabilize a few minutes after the initial "wave."
• Realistic expectations: for the semi-finals and final, demand far exceeds capacity. Prepare alternative sectors and accommodation in surrounding towns to maintain flexibility.