Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland leaders voice cautious hope for Germany's World Cup campaign
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in the United States, Mexico and Canada, politicians and celebrities from southwestern Germany share their predictions, hopes and concerns for the tournament.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup about to begin (opening match on 11 June, Germany's first group game on 14 June), prominent figures from Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland have offered their views on the tournament, the German team's prospects, and the surrounding political and financial controversies.
Anticipation and community spirit
Gordon Schnieder (CDU), Minister-President of Rhineland-Palatinate, is looking forward to watching matches with friends and at public viewing events.
He cited Germany's 4–0 test win in Mainz as a major confidence boost and said he hopes "the big one will succeed at the end." Saarland's Minister-President Anke Rehlinger (SPD) is already in "World Cup fever" and plans to watch as many games as possible, especially Germany's, ideally at public viewing venues.This sense of community when people come together, cheer along and celebrate goals — that's the World Cup summer for me.
I hope for Germany as world champion!
Political misgivings and cost complaints
Former Rhineland-Palatinate Minister-President Kurt Beck (SPD) has mixed feelings. While he will follow the matches, he criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino's public appearances alongside US President Donald Trump, and the steep prices facing fans.
Sportingly, Beck believes Germany — a proven tournament team — should reach at least the quarter-finals.If hundreds of dollars are charged for stadium visits and parking, you have to say: that has all got out of hand.
Players' perspective and title favourites
Former Bundesliga striker Benjamin Auer urged fans to focus on the football and not let political debates overshadow the event.
He named France and Spain as the strongest title contenders and said a quarter‑final appearance for Germany would be a success.You should look forward to the tournament and enjoy the beautiful things.
Watching from the bathrobe
Cabaret artist Lars Reichow from Mainz will watch as many matches as possible but, given the time difference, likely in a bathrobe rather than a Germany shirt. Like others, he will be cheering for the national team.
- Opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Germany plays its first group-stage match
