For DFB Team's Careers, Others Would Need a Time Machine
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- German players at the World Cup must climb onto a podium to speak with journalists after matches.
- This practice differs from the Bundesliga and Champions League, where players speak at ground level.
- The setup is compared to ancient Roman senators or generals addressing crowds from a rostrum.
At the FIFA World Cup, a distinct ritual unfolds after matches: players ascend a podium to address the assembled journalists. This elevated platform contrasts sharply with the more accessible interactions typically seen in domestic leagues like the Bundesliga or even the Champions League.
The practice evokes imagery of ancient Rome, where senators or victorious generals would address the populace from a rostrum, a raised platform designed for public speaking. This historical parallel suggests a deliberate elevation of the players' status during the global tournament, setting them apart from their usual interactions.
While the specific reasons for this post-match protocol at the World Cups are not detailed, the comparison to ancient Roman orators highlights a ceremonial aspect. It creates a visual separation, perhaps emphasizing the magnitude of the event and the players' roles as prominent figures on a global stage.
Originally published by Sรผddeutsche Zeitung in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.