Huge pitch invasion sees 25 fans rushed to hospital

It came after Hamburg's return to the German top flight.

The club beat Ulm 6-1, which sparked euphoric celebrations that led to fans rushing on to the pitch.

According to the Hamburg Fire Department, 25 people were brought to hospital, with 19 suffering serious injuries and five more minor injuries. A total of 44 people required treatment, with 65 medical and emergency personnel deployed.

A statement said: "After the final whistle, football fans stormed the stadium, resulting in injuries to several fans. The Hamburg Fire Department launched a major emergency medical response to support the emergency services on site.

"Since then, 44 patients have received medical treatment. Five with minor injuries, 19 with serious injuries, and one with life-threatening injuries were transported to nearby hospitals."

Fans were asked not to run on to the pitch by the stadium announcer prior to the full-time whistle, however these please were ignored.

Supporters rushed onto the field from all sides and lit flares as the celebrations began.

Hamburg sit top of the 2. Bundesliga table, a point ahead of second-place Koln.

The team's manager, Merlin Polzin, said: "It's indescribable.

"Something had been building in the background. We're back.

"In the end, it's the result of incredibly hard work. A very special moment."

Striker Davie Selke said: "When the final whistle went and everyone stormed the pitch, I simply stood there and took it all in.

"I’ve been in football for a few years now, but I have never experienced anything like what I did today.

"I’m just so happy and proud that we have got promoted, and deservingly so, and brought HSV back where it belongs. It’s a pleasure to be a part of it."