Final day emotions with FC Sankt Pauli: A photo essay

Here I am, embarking on a wild matchday journey along the banks of the Elbe. As the boat slowly docks, I discover the neighborhood of Sankt Pauli, already immersed in the atmosphere of a game day. The skull-and-crossbones symbol of the club, its crowing signifier of identity, hangs proudly from apartment windows all around the district.

Before the match, I head to the Flohmarkt Flohschanze, located just behind the Millerntor-Stadion. Between vintage stalls, old vinyl records, leather jackets and club memorabilia, the market has a character and atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

Around the stadium, supporters gather hours before kick-off. Bottles of Astra are everywhere and rock music blasts through the speakers. Conversations drift between football, music and alternative culture, while fans browse fanzines, stickers and bags of confetti prepared for the players’ entrance.

Inside the Millerntor, the atmosphere becomes overwhelming. The stadium feels raw and authentic, with its standing terraces bringing supporters even closer to the pitch. Driven by the Südtribune, singing nonstop from the first whistle to the last, the energy spreads through the entire ground and gives the match a unique intensity.

After the defeat and relegation to the 2. Bundesliga, hearing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” echo around the stadium created a timeless moment. Despite the disappointment, the stands remained full. Supporters sang, their scarves raised high above their heads, as if to remind everyone that their love for the club goes far beyond results.

In that shared emotion, you could truly understand what FC St. Pauli represents: loyalty that never fades, even in the hardest moments.

Quentin Aouidj is a Paris-based photographer, specialising in football and supporter culture. Follow more of his work via Instagram: @thefootballglobetrotter.