Germany Captain Kimmich: Political Expression Not Players’ Role

Germany captain Joshua Kimmich has stated that he and his teammates should not have “expressed political opinions” during the 2022 Fifa World Cup in Qatar. Kimmich was one of the German players who participated in a protest during the 2022 tournament, at which time goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was the captain. During the competition, the captains of seven European countries had intended to wear ‘OneLove’ armbands, which symbolized diversity and tolerance, due to homosexuality being illegal in Qatar. Following threats of sanctions from Fifa, the global governing body, against players who wore the armbands, Germany’s players covered their mouths with their hands during a team photograph taken before their initial match, which they lost to Japan. “We wanted to convey the message that Fifa is silencing teams,” stated then-head coach Hansi Flick after the match. Kimmich expressed regret for making the gesture, speaking ahead of Germany’s forthcoming Uefa Nations League fixtures. At a press conference, Kimmich remarked, “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.” He continued, “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. It was an outstanding World Cup in terms of organisation.” Kimmich added, “Western countries represent views which we think are universal and should be true everywhere. We as a country are feeling that we also have problems, our own building sites. So it is maybe good to focus on that.” He concluded his remarks on the topic by stating, “In the past we did not do everything right, you want to stand for values that are non-negotiable but we have people who should deal with politics and they are the experts. I am no political expert.” Kimmich made these remarks after being questioned about the 2034 World Cup, for which Saudi Arabia is expected to be confirmed as the host nation at the Fifa Congress vote next month, being the sole candidate. Organizations dedicated to human rights, such as Amnesty International, have voiced apprehension regarding the nation’s human rights track record and the conditions of migrant laborers at construction sites. Kimmich stated, “I would wish that those lads who will take part in the tournament in 10 years’ time can focus on the competition. After all it is our duty to do our best when nominated because we are measured on results.” Saudi Arabia refutes allegations of human rights abuses, asserting that it safeguards its national security via its legal framework. Germany is scheduled to compete against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Hungary on Saturday and Tuesday, respectively, as part of Uefa Nations League Group A3.