Sturm Graz claimed local bragging rights with a 2-1 derby victory over Grazer AK in the Austrian Bundesliga on December 8, 2025. The win at the Merkur-Arena in Graz was a tense and passionate affair typical of the Styrian rivalry. Sturm Graz opened the scoring with a header from a corner in the first half, but GAK equalized against the run of play just before the break. The decisive moment came midway through the second half when Sturm Graz was awarded a penalty, which was calmly converted to secure the match result. The focus point was the intense atmosphere and several robust challenges that resulted in multiple yellow cards. The victory kept Sturm Graz firmly in the title race behind Salzburg, while GAK's challenge for Europe took a hit. The Sturm Graz manager hailed his team's character in a derby, and the GAK coach felt the penalty decision was harsh.