Minister of Sports Christiane Schenderlein (CDU) has enthusiastically welcomed a potential German bid to host the 2038 or 2042 FIFA World Cup, emphasizing Germany’s proven capability in organizing major sporting events.
Speaking to RTL and ntv on Thursday, Schenderlein stated, “Fundamentally, we are pleased about this step. We are a country that is very strong in organizing large sporting events.” She cited previous successes, such as Euro 2024, and pointed out that the next UEFA Women’s European Championship in 2029 will also be held in Germany, along with ongoing preparations for Olympic and Paralympic Games.
According to the Minister, hosting a World Cup domestically offers unique opportunities for political influence. She clarified that this would not become merely a ‘FIFA show,’ noting, “If we do it at home, we can influence the values that are important to us.” These core principles for Germany during international mega-events include transparency, cohesion, respect, sustainability, and the protection of human rights.
While acknowledging the importance of the autonomy of organized sport, Schenderlein assured the public that the federal government would make its position clear. “We will state our points clearly and enforce them wherever we can influence them,” she affirmed. Regarding potential stadium investments, the minister referred to the already solid infrastructure within professional football and highlighted the “sports billion” fund, which the federal government uses to address modernization needs in grassroots sport and regional clubs.
Looking toward potential host locations, Schenderlein stressed the importance of ensuring good regional distribution, drawing on personal experience. She recalled that only Leipzig represented the new federal states during the 2006 World Cup. “Naturally, I will ensure that all regions are well represented,” Schenderlein said. As a minister from Eastern Germany, she also added that she is actively working to ensure that the East is sufficiently accounted for.
