In memory of Hans Benzler
Bayer 04 mourn former goalkeeper Hans Benzler. The Regional League keeper for the Werkself (1967-1969) passed away at the age of 81 on Thursday night.
Hans Benzler, who started his playing career with the youth section at SpVgg Beckum, then played for VfR Mannheim from 1958 to 1967 in the then top flight of the Oberliga South. In the summer of 1967, the then 31-year-old joined Bayer 04 where he became a fan favourite thanks to his outstanding performances in goal with the nickname of 'grandad'. His displays in goal helped Bayer 04 lift the Regional League West title in 1968. However, he was on the losing side in the promotion decider in a 2-1 defeat at Kickers Offenbach - the Werkself missed out on promotion to the Bundesliga. Hans Benzler retired in 1969.
Related News
Bayer 04 - 12.05.2026
Round Table with media from Latin America: Palacios on end of season and World Cup
Ahead of the conclusion to the 2025/26 season with the Werkself and the World Cup with Argentina, Bayer 04 midfielder Exequiel Palacios answered questions from journalists from the Latin America region. In a digital media round, the 27-year-old, who's been in Leverkusen since 2020, spoke about the "great development potential" in the current Werkself squad as well as his World Cup ambitions with the Albiceleste, among other things.
Show more
Women - 12.05.2026
Julia Mickenhagen to move to VfB Stuttgart
Full-back Julia Mickenhagen is leaving Bayer 04 Leverkusen at the end of the season to join Bundesliga newcomers VfB Stuttgart. The 21-year-old’s contract with the club expires on 30 June.
Show more
Werkself-TV - 11.05.2026
Women: TV-highlights of 3-1 win at RB Leipzig
Werkself-TV shows the highlights of the Bayer 04 women's 3-1 win at RB Leipzig on the 25th matchday of the Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga 2025/26.
Show more
Women - 11.05.2026
Bayer 04 Women win in Leipzig to keep Champions League chance alive
Bayer 04 Women still have a chance of qualifying for the UEFA Women’s Champions League for the first time ever going into the final day of the season after a 3-1 win at RB Leipzig on Monday evening. The result took Roberto Pätzold’s side to within two points of Eintracht Frankfurt in third place. Cornelia Kramer, Katharina Piljic and Ruby Grant scored the goals for the Werkself’s fifth consecutive win that sets up a thrilling final matchday at home to Werder Bremen on Sunday.
Show more
