Schalke Secure Bundesliga Return After 3-Year Absence

FC Schalke 04 have secured an immediate return to the Bundesliga after finishing top of the 2. Bundesliga, ending a three-year spell outside Germany’s top flight since their relegation in 2023.

The decisive moment came with a 1-0 victory over Fortuna Düsseldorf, thanks to a first-half goal from Kenan Karaman in the 15th minute, confirming promotion with matches still remaining in the season.

The win lifted Schalke to 67 points at the summit of the table, officially sealing their promotion back to the Bundesliga and restoring pride to the club after years of struggle in the second division.

Celebrations erupted across the Ruhr region as thousands of supporters gathered around the stadium, marking the occasion with fireworks, chants, and widespread festivities late into the night.

Behind Schalke, the race for the second automatic promotion spot remains intense, with SC Paderborn 07 and Hannover 96 still competing closely as the season approaches its final rounds.