ESV Ludwigshafen is surprisingly crowned indoor city champion!

ESV Ludwigshafen is surprisingly crowned indoor city champion!

January 18, 2026 will go down in the history of Ludwigshafen indoor football: ESV Ludwigshafen won the city championship for the first time. In an exciting final in the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle, the team prevailed against SV Ruchheim after a thrilling extra time; both teams had previously been without the title. The hall was full to the brim with football-loving fans who were literally longing for the exciting duel. The fight for the city championship title took place as part of the 43rd edition of the tournament, which was organized by the city of Ludwigshafen, the Ludwigshafen Sports Association (LSV) and LUKOM.

The championship began at 9 a.m. with exciting preliminary round games in which the 16 best club teams in Ludwigshafen fought for victory. With a total of 32 games and a playing time of 12 minutes per game, it was a day full of passion and football performances. The breaks of just 3 minutes between matches also contributed to the dynamic atmosphere. After exciting preliminary group games, the quarter-finals were played from 3 p.m., followed by the first semi-final at 4 p.m. and the grand final at 5:15 p.m.

The final encounter

The final between ESV Ludwigshafen and SV Ruchheim was a real treat for the spectators. The ESV ultimately prevailed and was allowed to accept the city championship trophy from the hands of the new mayor Klaus Blettner. ESV co-coach Andreas Wollnik took responsibility for the team as the actual coach Denis Rothweiler was not present. Wollnik emphasized that the team was on the pitch without pressure and just for fun, which ultimately contributed to their success.

In the semi-finals, FC Arminia Ludwigshafen, a top division team that had high standards, had to give up early, which illustrated the surprise of the tournament. It was a celebration for the local community, because volunteer work played a key role, supported by helpers from Ludwigshafen sports clubs.

An attractive supporting program

In addition to the exciting football action, an entertaining supporting program also attracted visitors. Those responsible for the tournament organized everything well so that the spectators were well looked after both at the games and in the surrounding area. Admission prices were reasonable at 8 euros for adults and 5 euros for concessions, while children up to 12 years received free entry.

The tournament was not only a sporting highlight, but also financially lucrative. A total of 1,800 euros in prize money was up for grabs for the best teams - 750 euros for the tournament winner, 500 euros for the runner-up and further amounts for placing from third place onwards as well as a special fairness prize.

The organizers, including the main sponsor BASF SE and other supporters such as Sparkasse Vorderpfalz and VR Bank Rhein-Neckar eG, have once again proven that commitment and community spirit pay off. Perhaps this is the start of a new tradition for ESV Ludwigshafen that will take the club even further forward in local football.