Two days before the start of the World Cup, alcoholic beer was suddenly banned in the stadium, and one day before the first game, FIFA presented new captain’s armbands. Probably also as a reaction to the one-love symbols, the world association presents alternative messages. DFB captain Manuel Neuer sticks to the original plan.
Despite possible sanctions by FIFA, Manuel Neuer wants to wear the captain’s armband with the One Love symbol in the World Cup opening game against Japan. At the DFB press conference in Al-Shamal, the goalkeeper of the German national soccer team answered a similar question in a nutshell: “Yes.”
DFB director Oliver Bierhoff was amazed at the alternative imprints for captain’s armbands with social messages presented by FIFA on Saturday. “I’ve also heard one or two things. Of course, the short-term nature is surprising. It seems as if FIFA doesn’t have a clear position,” said Bierhoff.
In September, the DFB announced that it would wear the captain’s armband at the World Cup, along with other major football nations such as England and the Netherlands, as a symbol of equality and freedom of expression. World Cup host Qatar has been criticized for disregarding human rights standards. FIFA unveiled several of its own captain’s armband options on Saturday, with slogans such as “
Bierhoff announced that they wanted to coordinate further with the other nations. “We assume that we can continue to wear the bandage,” said the 54-year-old. FIFA has not yet banned the one love armband. According to the statutes, political statements are prohibited. DFB President Bernd Neuendorf made it clear on Friday that he would continue with the campaign even if a fine was imposed as a sanction.
Neuer emphasized the importance of joint action with other teams. “It’s good that we have the power with other nations in western Europe,” said the 36-year-old. “It’s good that we’re not alone.” He’s not afraid to wear the One Love bandage. There is also criticism of this because it is seen as a departure from the rainbow flag, which many had wished for as a clear sign.
