On the occasion of the funeral ceremony for football legend Franz Beckenbauer, former Bayern Munich President Uli Hoeneß expressed his gratitude towards the “Kaiser” for instilling a sense of pride in the German people during the 2006 World Cup. However, Hoeneß made it clear that he wants nothing to do with the far-right political party Alternative for Germany (AfD).
During the somber gathering to honor the life and achievements of Franz Beckenbauer, Uli Hoeneß took a moment to reflect on the indelible impact that the legendary footballer had on Germany. Among the many contributions mentioned, Hoeneß specifically highlighted the pride that Beckenbauer’s leadership brought to the nation during the 2006 World Cup.
As the German national team coach at the time, Beckenbauer guided the squad to an impressive third-place finish on home soil. It was not only the team’s success on the field that left a lasting impression, but also the way in which Beckenbauer carried himself, evoking a profound sense of national pride and unity. Reflecting on those memorable moments, Hoeneß expressed his gratitude to the “Kaiser” for fostering such a strong sense of patriotism among the German people.
However, amidst these expressions of gratitude, Hoeneß took a firm stance against any association with the far-right political party, Alternative for Germany (AfD). In emphasizing his disavowal of the AfD, Hoeneß made it clear that his appreciation for Beckenbauer’s contributions to the nation did not extend to aligning himself with a political ideology that he found incompatible with his beliefs.
The AfD has been a contentious force in German politics, known for its controversial positions on issues such as immigration and nationalism. Hoeneß, with his longstanding reputation as a respected figure in German football, wanted to distance himself from any connection to a party that he believed did not uphold the values of tolerance and inclusivity.
In his address, Hoeneß’s steadfast rejection of the AfD showcased his commitment to promoting unity and embracing diversity within the German society. By emphasizing his reluctance to associate with a political party that stood in opposition to these principles, Hoeneß underscored the importance of fostering an inclusive and accepting environment for all.
As the ceremony concluded, the attendees carried with them the memories of both Franz Beckenbauer’s remarkable footballing achievements and Uli Hoeneß’s resolute stance against the forces of intolerance. Their words served as a reminder that sports can transcend boundaries, inspiring national pride while also reinforcing the values of respect and unity that are vital for a harmonious society.
