Paderborn is in Washington, D.C. for a friendly match against D.C. United on September 30, as part of their international break during the 2026/27 season. The North Rhine-Westphalian Bundesliga club will stay in the U.S. capital from September 25 until October 1, with plans for additional marketing activities during their visit.
Read More
The team secured promotion to the Bundesliga for the third time after defeating Wolfsburg in the play-off last season. Ahead of the friendly, Paderborn head coach Ralf Kettemann expressed that while training and tactics are important, the trip provides invaluable team bonding experiences.
On September 29, Kettemann addressed the media, sharing his impressions of America, describing everything as “bigger” and noting the unique experience includes cultural immersion. Paderborn also toured the University of Maryland, guided by the Terrapins’ head football coach Sasho Cirovski.
During their time in D.C., Paderborn players attended an NFL game on September 24, watching the Washington Commanders win against the Seattle Seahawks with a score of 33-31. That experience added to their understanding of American sports culture.
The squad includes 28 players, although Laurin Ulrich and Luka Duric are not making the trip due to national team commitments. Marcel Hoffmeier and Timur Gayret are traveling to continue their rehabilitation.
The friendly against D.C. United is set to take place at Audi Field, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30 PM local time (1:30 AM CEST on October 1). This match represents a cultural exchange, where Paderborn aims to showcase German soccer while engaging with local communities.