Leverkusen ist die Stadt

Lore & Background

The BayArena, opened in 1958 as the 'Stadion am Bismarckplatz' before its modern reconstruction, has been the stage for the club's most defining moments. From the glory days of the late 1990s under Klaus Toppmöller to the heartbreak and triumph of the 'nearly' era in the early 2000s, the stadium has witnessed a culture that refuses to be defined solely by trophies. The fans have historically supported the team through periods of near-miss glory with unwavering loyalty, creating an atmosphere where the journey is valued as highly as the destination.

In Their Own Story

The rain slicked the grass at the BayArena on a cold November evening, but the red and white sea in the stands remained undisturbed. As the team emerged from the tunnel, the chant 'Leverkusen ist die Stadt' rose as one voice, echoing off the concrete walls that had witnessed decades of struggle and hope. It wasn't about the league table tonight; it was about the connection between the workers who built the city and the players who wore their badge with pride.

Reader's Guide

Attending a match at the BayArena is an immersive experience defined by the 'Red-White Wall' (Rote Weiße Wand), where thousands of fans create a visual spectacle that intimidates opponents. The atmosphere is consistently loud, with supporters singing traditional club anthems and modern chants that emphasize unity over individual stardom.

The role of supporters in the club's history is pivotal; they have been the constant force behind the team during times of transition, from the departure of legendary coaches to the rise of new talents. The fan culture rejects hooliganism in favor of a passionate but disciplined presence that celebrates the 'Werkself' identity.

Unique rituals include the pre-match lighting of the stadium and the collective singing of 'Leverkusen ist die Stadt,' which serves as a reminder that the club belongs to the city. The red and white colors are displayed everywhere, from scarves in the stands to banners commemorating historic matches.

Did You Know?

• The nickname 'Die Werkself' literally translates to 'The Works Eleven,' referencing the club's founding by Bayer AG employees.
• Bayer Leverkusen holds the record for the longest unbeaten run in Bundesliga history, lasting over 30 games during the 2019-20 season.
• The club was founded in 1904 as a sports department within the pharmaceutical company Bayer AG before becoming an independent entity.
• Leverkusen is one of the few German clubs to have never been relegated from the top flight since the inception of the Bundesliga in 1963.