Teenagers are excited about hosting Euro 2024, believing it will strengthen community bonds, although they doubt Germany will win.
In front of the town hall in Munich’s historic center, the stirring sound of the national anthem begins to play. The performance captivates the Bavarian locals, prompting enthusiastic applause. However, the lone musician is not German but Scottish, and he’s playing the bagpipes.
It’s rare to see a German performing their anthem with such gusto, as spontaneous patriotic displays are uncommon in Germany. This musical moment symbolizes how visiting football fans are energizing the locals, who have so far shown little enthusiasm for the upcoming summer festivities.
Researchers attribute this lack of excitement to several factors: the men’s national team’s eight-year drought in knockout stages of international tournaments, high ticket prices, and a general sense of national malaise. Germany’s political landscape is fragmented, with coalition government disputes and sluggish economic growth contributing to the mood.
The nation yearns for another “Sommermärchen” (summer fairy tale), reminiscent of the 2006 World Cup. Back then, Germans joyfully waved flags, shedding the discomfort of displaying national colors—a hangover from the country’s troubled past. Although the team was eliminated in the semi-finals, the event united the country and showcased a confident, vibrant Germany.
Football journalist Philipp Köster expresses skepticism about a repeat of 2006, citing the war in Ukraine, the pandemic, and societal divisions. The ruling coalition, despite passing key legislation, is unpopular due to internal conflicts, while the far-right AfD gains support, as evidenced by their recent success in European Parliament elections.
Köster hopes the tournament will unify Germans and foster good hosting, but he remains uncertain. At ESV Freimann football club in Munich, enthusiasm is palpable among the young players. Over 300 children train weekly, with the women’s team being particularly successful. Teenagers like 14-year-old Samuel are excited about hosting Euro 2024, believing it will strengthen community bonds, although they doubt Germany will win.
National organizers prioritize fan safety amid increased international tensions from the Ukraine war and Middle East conflicts. Deputy Commissioner Michael Dibowski, overseeing security for the six matches in Munich, is prepared for potential threats, including those inspired by recent Islamic State social media posts.
Recent politically motivated attacks in Germany, like the stabbing of a police officer in Mannheim, heighten security concerns. Despite the subdued public enthusiasm, memories of the 2006 World Cup suggest that excitement can build as the tournament progresses. Köster believes football has the power to unite the nation, transcending political and religious differences.
While hosting success is important, Köster emphasizes the desire to be welcoming hosts, showing Germany’s friendly side to the influx of international fans.
