Darmstadt 98 has released its official 2026 summer schedule, focusing on a proven training camp in the Allgäu region and several friendly matches. The first team training begins on June 28 at SV Winterkasten’s grounds in Lindenfels, a move aimed at boosting the club’s presence in the Odenwald.

Why choose the Allgäu camp again?

The club returns to Bad Wörishofen in the Allgäu, where last year the squad refined tactics and fitness. Coach Florian Kohfeldt wants to further improve conditioning before the season kicks off on August 7. The camp runs from July 19 to 26 and will host two yet‑to‑be‑announced friendlies.

Which test matches are on the agenda?

The Lilies have already fixed five friendlies: against SG Arheilgen on July 4, VfR Fehlheim on July 11, FC Homburg on July 14, FC‑Astoria Walldorf on July 17 and Drittliga newcomer Sonnenhof Großaspach on July 25. The marquee fixture is a friendly versus English Championship side Portsmouth FC on August 1, part of the season‑opening celebration. The first official 2. Bundesliga match follows against Holstein Kiel on August 8.

How does this affect the current league standing?

Darmstadt 98 currently sits fifth in the 2. Bundesliga with 52 points from 34 games (13 wins, 13 draws, 8 losses) and a recent form of LDLDL. The team has scored 57 goals and conceded 45, a +12 goal difference, yet remains 18 points behind leaders Schalke 04. The upcoming friendlies aim to stabilise form and ready the squad for the promotion chase.

What does the Odenwald initiative mean for supporters?

The June 28 training session in Lindenfels is part of a broader effort to bring the Lilies closer to fans in the Odenwald. SV Winterkasten backs the plan with events designed to enliven club life in the region. For supporters, this creates more chances to see the team live and engage directly with the club.

What follows the summer program?

After the camp and friendlies, the official season opener arrives. On August 23 Darmstadt 98 will face Carl Zeiss Jena in the DFB‑Pokal. The next weeks will reveal whether the intensive summer programme positions the team to close the gap on Schalke 04 and stay in the race for promotion.