FC Bayern fans travel from all over the world to support their team at away matches – even if it takes them hundreds of kilometres through snow and cold. We want to get to know those who spare no effort or expense to see their beloved Bayern away from the Allianz Arena a little better: our away fans with their special stories, their love and their passion for FC Bayern.
First things first: Before Frank Schmidt and his Stephie can tell their story, they first have to shake hands. A cry of "Congratulations!" goes up from the left as a friend comes running towards the red and white couple from the direction of the VIP car park in front of the Alte Försterei stadium. A second friend, also obviously a fan of the home team, follows behind and gives them both a big hug. There is a reason for this, actually a wonderful one: just seven weeks before FC Bayern's game at Union Berlin, the two were married. And the German record champions played a major role in that too.
"We were decked out entirely in red and white at our wedding," says Frank with a laugh, pulling out his mobile phone. And indeed, the outfit they wore at the civil ceremony in front of the Paul-Gerhardt-Haus is no different to the one they're now wearing as red and white supporters in front of the Union Stadium. Jerseys, red trousers - on Saturday, in the autumn temperatures in Berlin, they were wearing jackets. No one was surprised. "Everyone knows we're positively bonkers," says Frank, as you can see from their apartment, which is brimming with Bayern fan merchandise.
Two “Bayern fanatics”
The idea for the special wedding outfits was born during the wedding consultation, and they quickly found the appropriate flower girl: Stephie's daughter, seven years old, in a red jersey. The little girl is just as hooked as her mum - and always has been. "I'm from West Berlin, Stephie's from East Berlin," says Frank. Both of them, however, grew up with Bayern in their bedrooms. Stephie pulls out a photo that shows her as a child in full Bayern gear. And when the two met seven years ago, they quickly realised they had something in common. The newlyweds say in unison: "We're Bayern fanatics." And when asked whether this fanaticism is easy to live with in or near Berlin, the answer is a resounding: "Yes!"
When Bayern come to the capital, it's naturally a family day of celebration. Although trips to the Allianz Arena are regular highlights, they always involve a lot of effort: 600 kilometres there, 600 kilometres back. "Today we're enjoying a dream Bayern day in Berlin," says Frank. His prediction: 4-1. Stephie says: 3-1. In the end, it was a 2-2 draw, which both the couple and FC Bayern could easily live with after the terrific start to the season. At their home in Königs Wusterhausen, there are generally only Union fans, but that doesn't change anything about their peaceful coexistence. "Munich is red and so is Berlin," explains Stephie - and this is especially true for the special couple with FC Bayern in their hearts.
Topics of this article