Joshua Kimmich Rips ‘Absolutely Racist’ Survey Calling for More White Germany Players
Mike Chiari@@mikechiariFeatured Columnist IVJune 1, 2024
Markus Gilliar – GES Sportfoto/Getty Images
German midfielder Joshua Kimmich spoke out Saturday against a recent survey asking the people of Germany if they would prefer to have more white players as part of the national soccer team.
According to the Associated Press (h/t ESPN), a survey conducted by German broadcasting organization ARD in relation to an upcoming documentary entitled Unity and Justice and Diversity found that 21 percent of the 1,304 people polled wish Team Germany had more white players.
Kimmich, who is white, blasted the response and the survey itself, telling reporters:
“Anyone who’s grown up with football knows this is absolute nonsense. Football in particular is a good example of how you can unite different nations, different skin colors and different religions. That’s what our team is all about. I would miss a lot of players if they weren’t here. This is absolutely racist and has no place in our changing room.”
The 29-year-old Kimmich also took issue with the timing of the poll, as Germany is set to host the 2024 European Football Championship later this month:
“When you consider that we are about to host a European Championship at home, it’s absurd to ask such a question when the aim is actually to unite the whole country. It’s about achieving great things together. As a team, we’re trying to get everyone in Germany behind us.”
This year marks the first time Germany has served as the solo host country for the Euros since 1988 when the tournament was held in West Germany.
Germany’s three Euro titles are tied with Spain for the most in the history of the tourney, but they have not won it since 1996 despite their longstanding status as one of the top powers in European soccer.
Germany’s last major title was the World Cup in 2014 when defender Jerome Boateng, who is Black, played a pivotal role in a 1-0 win over Argentina, as he dominated defensively and helped shut down Argentina’s high-powered attack.
Antonio RĂŒdiger and Leroy SanĂ© are two Black players on Germany’s Euro 2024 squad who figure to have a significant hand in the team’s success as well.
Germany will begin play at Euro 2024 on June 14 when it faces Scotland in group action.
