Football and Politics: A Mirror of Society
Germany’s politics has long influenced various aspects of society, and football is no exception. Recently, German football fans have staged protests against the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), while many fan groups have actively worked to combat racism. However, the country’s rightward political shift is also evident in the football stands, reflecting the broader changes in public sentiment.
“Soccer is more political than ever,” Rico Norke.
Football Fans Stand Against the Far-Right
Over the past year, several clubs in Germany’s top two leagues, including Werder Bremen, VfL Bochum, FSV Mainz 05, 1. FC Köln, and Hannover 96, have encouraged their supporters to oppose right-wing extremism. Protests have been held both inside stadiums and on city streets, amplifying resistance against the AfD.
At a recent St. Pauli Home Game, a club known for his strong anti-fascist attitude, sang fans passionately. In addition, on International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27), fans displayed a banner that read: “Those who fight against Nazis can’t rely on the state.”
A Divided Football Culture
Despite these demonstrations, not all German football fans are as politically vocal. According to Rico Noack, chairman of Gesellschaftsspiele (“social games”), many fan groups tend to avoid overt political displays.
“I’d like them to have more courage. Too often, groups decide something is ‘too political’ and choose the least controversial stance—or say nothing at all.” — Rico Noack
This hesitation is paradoxical given that football has been at the heart of Germany’s cultural battles. For example, during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the German national team planned to wear “One Love” armbands to protest against anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Similarly, the AFD criticized the German hosts at last year’s European Championships.
The Rising Normalization of Racism
The growing rightward shift in Germany’s politics has also led to increasing racist incidents in football. Journalist Ronny Blaschke, who recently published a book about racism in the sport, highlights the worrying trend.
“Especially after the 2015 refugee crisis, racism in the stadiums has increased. Black footballers face more abuse, and social media is filled with hateful comments.” — Ronny Blaschke
Black players on youth and national teams often experience online harassment, exposing the deep-seated racial prejudices within certain sections of the fan base.
Football as a Political Battleground
As Germany’s politics continues to evolve, so too does its football culture. While clubs and fan groups fight against racism and far-right ideology, others remain silent, revealing a division within the footballing community. Football has always been more than just a sport—it’s a reflection of society’s conflicts and ideals.
The stadiums of Germany are no longer just venues for thrilling matches; they are arenas where the country’s political struggles play out, shaping the future of both football and national identity.
