Foto: DFL/Thomas Langer/Getty Images 21.04.2026 / English
Fabian Holland: Lilies era ends after the season
The end of an era. Fabian Holland's twelfth season in the Lilies' jersey will be his last with SV 98. The 35-year-old's contract, which expires at the end of the season, will not be renewed. The club informed Holland of this decision in a confidential meeting. Both club and player agree to focus entirely on achieving the best possible end to the season until the final match and that any plans for a farewell celebration will depend on how the rest of the season unfolds.
Paul Fernie: “Fabian Holland is leaving SV 98 as a club legend. Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of knowing him as an incredible team player with a fantastic character. I have the utmost respect for what Fabi has achieved for the Lilies in his twelve years with us and how he managed to fight his way back after his serious injury this season. I take my hat off to the footballer, but even more so to Fabian Holland the person.”
Markus Pfitzner: “I had the privilege of experiencing Fabian Holland’s entire era at SV 98. Fabi always led by example with his performance and an indomitable will, becoming one of the most successful Lilies players of all time. Fabi will receive the send-off he deserves after more than a decade with us. And it goes without saying that our doors will always be open to him.”
The Lilies have become my home and SV 98 will always have a place in my heart.
Fabian Holland: “The thought that the coming weeks will be my last at SV 98 is, of course, not easy for me. But at the same time, I look back with a broad smile on the past twelve years and all the unforgettable moments with this club. The Lilies have become my home, and SV 98 will always hold a place in my heart. It was important to me to inform all the Lilies fans and those around me about my decision regarding my future at this time, but this season isn’t over yet. There are still at least four games left in which we can still achieve something. Despite all the emotions, that’s where my complete focus is now. After that, there will be plenty of time for a big goodbye and a heartfelt farewell.”
Holland joined Darmstadt on loan from Hertha BSC in 2014/15, and has been a permanent member of the Lilies since 2015. The left-footed player has made 316 competitive appearances for SV 98 to date, placing him fourth among the players with the most appearances in the club’s history. During his time in southern Hesse, Holland has celebrated promotion to the Bundesliga twice and secured Darmstadt’s survival in the top flight in 2016. From January 2019 to July 2025, the Berlin native also captained the Lilies.