Germany captain Joshua Kimmich regrets team’s political stance at 2022 World Cup

Germany captain Joshua Kimmich has voiced regret over his team’s political statements at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, saying players should refrain from expressing political views.

Kimmich’s reflections follow Germany’s controversial protest at the tournament, where they covered their mouths during a team photo after FIFA threatened sanctions for wearing the ‘OneLove’ armband—a symbol of diversity and tolerance—in a country where homosexuality is illegal.

“We wanted to convey the message that FIFA is silencing teams,” former coach Hansi Flick explained at the time. However, ahead of Germany’s UEFA Nations League games, Kimmich said the gesture distracted from the competition.

“In general, us players should stand for specific values, especially as the captain of the national team. But it is not our job to express ourselves politically all the time,” Kimmich told a press conference.

“Look at the issue of Qatar. We did not present an overall good picture as a team and country. We expressed political opinions, and it took a bit away from the joy of the tournament.”

Reflecting on Germany’s involvement in future tournaments, Kimmich pointed out that “Western countries represent views which we think are universal… but we have problems, our own building sites. I am no political expert.”

Asked about Saudi Arabia’s likely hosting of the 2034 World Cup, Kimmich noted he hoped future players could focus on football alone. “I would wish that those lads who will take part in the tournament in 10 years’ time can focus on the competition.”

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