Sports Minister Christiane Schenderlein (CDU) stated that despite the upcoming soccer World Cup, she does not expect any fundamental shift in the country’s overall mood, stressing instead the overriding importance of ongoing political reform work. She pointed out that many citizens are acutely aware of the pressures associated with the current projects.
Speaking to RTL and ntv on Thursday, Schenderlein confirmed that the government understands the necessity and associated efforts required for these reforms. “We shouldn’t pretend it’s different-we are certainly aware of the need for reforms and that they involve effort,” she said. She added that the administration has a significant amount of work left before the summer break, and time is limited.
While acknowledging the positive impact of a successful national team, the Minister cautioned that such an achievement cannot replace governing action. “Of course, a successful team is something positive,” she noted. However, Schenderlein emphasized that the public carefully distinguishes between football and government performance. “I believe people are viewing politics in a very nuanced way.”
Simultaneously, the Minister highlighted the powerful communal aspect of the tournament. She anticipates that people will enjoy shared experiences, anticipating public viewing events. The federal government has already established the legal framework enabling citizens to watch football together even after 10 p.m. For her, football is more than just a game; “football is, as is often said, the nation’s last bonfire,” she commented, adding that it is “something beautiful for experiencing community.” This sentiment holds even though an RTL poll revealed that only one quarter of Germans believe the World Cup can positively enhance the general atmosphere in the country. Nevertheless, she maintained that the government’s core duty remains clear: “First and foremost, we must do our jobs here in Berlin.”
