For FC St. Pauli, a Bundesliga football club, Magnus Carlsen’s involvement was nothing short of a marketing triumph. The chess superstar’s appearance even caught the attention of major news outlets like Tagesschau. Now, fans are wondering if Carlsen will return for another stint.
Magnus Carlsen, widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time, has left the door open regarding his future with FC St. Pauli’s chess team. “Hopefully, I’ll get the chance to play again,” the 34-year-old said during an interview with NDR following his debut for the club’s chess division. Over the weekend, Carlsen played a pivotal role, securing a win against SG Solingen and drawing in the match against Düsseldorfer SK. Despite the mixed results, St. Pauli managed to secure vital points in their fight to remain in the world’s strongest chess league.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Carlsen expressed optimism while emphasizing the challenges ahead. “I think we have a solid team, but our primary goal for now is to climb the rankings and avoid relegation—much like the football team,” he remarked. In the football Bundesliga, St. Pauli currently sits at 14th place, just one point ahead of 1. FC Heidenheim, which occupies the relegation playoff spot.
Looking ahead, the chess team’s next home matches are scheduled for March 22 and 23. They will face two formidable opponents: OSG Baden-Baden and Schachfreunde Deizisau, both considered among the top teams in the league. These matches will take place at the iconic Millerntor Stadium, home to St. Pauli’s football team, promising an exciting atmosphere for fans of both chess and football.
The possibility of Carlsen’s return adds a layer of anticipation to these events, as St. Pauli continues to bridge the worlds of football and chess in unique and captivating ways.
