Bundesliga Relegation
Rules, dramas, and the history of German football's most dramatic format
How Does Bundesliga Relegation Work?
Since 2008/09, the 16th-placed Bundesliga team plays a two-legged playoff against the 3rd-placed team from the 2. Bundesliga. The winner plays in the top flight next season. If level after 180 minutes: 30 minutes extra time, then penalties.
Key Fact: The relegation playoff was reintroduced in 2008/09. The Bundesliga team has survived approximately 60% of the time since then.
Greatest Relegation Dramas
| Season | Match | Drama |
|---|---|---|
| 2018/19 | Stuttgart vs. Union Berlin | Union promoted for the first time ever. Stuttgart relegated. |
| 2021/22 | Hertha BSC vs. HSV | Felix Magath saves Hertha in the final seconds. |
| 2022/23 | Stuttgart vs. HSV | Stuttgart's 92nd-minute goal secures survival. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Bundesliga relegation work?
The 16th-placed Bundesliga team plays a two-legged tie against the 3rd-placed 2. Bundesliga team. The winner plays in the top flight next season. If level after 180 minutes: extra time, then penalties.
When was the relegation playoff reintroduced?
The relegation playoff was reintroduced in 2008/09 after being abolished in 1991. It replaced direct relegation for the 16th-placed team.
What was the most dramatic relegation match?
2023: VfB Stuttgart scored in the 92nd minute to survive against HSV. 2019: Union Berlin gained promotion for the first time, sending Stuttgart down. 2022: Felix Magath saved Hertha BSC against HSV.