The German Football Association (DFB) has categorically confirmed that it has no intention of withdrawing from the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The idea of boycotting the tournament was raised by DFB Vice President Oke Gottlich, who also serves as president of FC St. Pauli, in response to recent actions and statements by US President Donald Trump against European countries.
Gottlich’s remarks did not sit well with DFB officials, who issued a statement seemingly rebuking the vice president for making such controversial remarks publicly. The statement emphasized that internal discussions should remain private.
The DFB did not deny that the idea was discussed within the Executive Committee after Gottlich raised it, but it was unanimously rejected.
The DFB stated, “We believe in the power of sport to unite the world and in the global impact that the FIFA World Cup can have. Our goal is to strengthen this positive force, not to suppress it.”
The statement continued, “The idea of a boycott is not currently on the table, and the federation is in contact with representatives from the political, security, business, and sports sectors in preparation for the tournament.”
Germany’s official stance follows a similar statement from France, announced days earlier by Sports Minister Marina Ferrari in response to calls for withdrawal. She affirmed that Emmanuel Macron’s government has no intention of taking such a step.
