November 14 – Germany captain Joshua Kimmich says he and his team-mates should not have “expressed political opinions” during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Captains of seven European nations planned to wear ‘OneLove’ armbands symbolising diversity and tolerance during the tournament since homosexuality is illegal in Qatar.
After FIFA threatened sanctions against players who wore the armbands, Germany’s players placed their hands over their mouths during a team photo before their opening-game defeat by Japan.
“We wanted to convey the message that FIFA is silencing teams,” then head coach Hansi Flick said after the game.
But speaking before Germany’s upcoming Nations League games, Kimmich said he regretted making the gesture.
Asked about Saudi Arabia’s bid set to be picked for the 2034 World Cup amid human rights concerns, Kimmich said there was a limit to the scope of players’ influence.
“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.
Kimmich, who took over the captaincy after this year’s European Championship, said Germany had not benefited from their political stance during the Qatar tournament.
“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. 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.”
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