At the Ballon d’Or there is a surprising tribute to the late Franz Beckenbauer. His family and Rummenigge experience this on site and react emotionally.
A tribute to Franz Beckenbauer, who died in January, was the emotional highlight of the 68th Ballon d’Or award ceremony. On the occasion of the death of the “Emperor” at the age of 78 at the beginning of the year, there was a solemn “tribute ceremony” on Monday evening at the prestigious award for the world footballer at the Théatre du Chatelet in Paris, attended by the widow Heidi and son Joel as well as Karl -Heinz Rummenigge took part.
In honor of Franz Beckenbauer, a tribute video was shown that honored his work and contributions to football. On stage, the family and Rummenigge spoke with presenters Didier Drogba and Sandy Heribert about Beckenbauer, who had won the Ballon d’Or twice. Rummenigge emphasized, among other things, that Beckenbauer was “a very good example for everyone to learn how to deal with people.” Heidi said her late husband had a “big heart.” Joel emphasized: “He treated everyone fairly and equally.” At home, Beckenbauer was never the “emperor,” but simply “the best father.”
Beckenbauer became famous above all as a shining light of German football. Among other things, he won the world championship title as a player with the German national team in 1974, and then also as team manager of the selection in 1990.
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said to t-online, among others, during the event on Monday: “I very much welcome the decision of the organizers of the Ballon d’Or to honor Franz Beckenbauer in this special way. He has won this award twice and was already one of the first global football personalities. His influence on our game across the board is immeasurable.”
Rummenigge continued: “The world of football can consider itself lucky to have had Franz Beckenbauer in its midst. Franz was my captain, my coach and our president – a man of global stature who connected and inspired people beyond football. ” The ex-Bayern boss also explained: “Beckenbauer is and remains the greatest personality that FC Bayern has ever had – and unforgettable in each of his roles.”
After the tribute ceremony, Rummenigge also presented the Gerd Müller Trophy for the best goalscorer for the club and national team in the 2023/24 season. Kylian Mbappé from Real Madrid and Harry Kane from FC Bayern shared this award with 52 goals each.