Euro 2024 commenced on Friday with an emotional opening ceremony in Munich, where footballing legend Franz Beckenbauer was honored ahead of the highly anticipated match between host nation Germany and Scotland. The tribute served as a poignant moment, recognizing the immense contribution of “Der Kaiser” to German and world football.
The pre-match spectacle at the Munich Football Arena, packed with 66,000 fans, featured dancers clad in the colors of all 24 participating nations. They moved to the rhythm of “Fire,” the tournament’s official anthem performed by singer Leony, setting an energetic tone for the competition. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier was also present, adding to the event’s prestige.
Euro 2024 Opening Ceremony Munich: Dancers surround giant Euro trophy in tribute to Franz Beckenbauer
The emotional high point of the ceremony was undoubtedly the tribute to Franz Beckenbauer, who passed away in January at the age of 78. Beckenbauer is revered as one of football’s greatest ever, having won the Euro 1972 and the 1974 World Cup as a player, and then leading Germany to World Cup glory again as a coach in 1990. His legacy extends far beyond these titles, embodying elegance and leadership on and off the pitch.
In a moving gesture, Beckenbauer’s widow, Heidi, carried the European Championship trophy onto the field. She was accompanied by two other iconic German captains who had lifted the Euro trophy: Jürgen Klinsmann (Euro 1996) and Bernard Dietz (Euro 1980). This symbolic act connected generations of German football success and underscored Beckenbauer’s central place within that history. Heidi Beckenbauer concluded the tribute by blowing a kiss towards the sky, a heartfelt farewell to her late husband that resonated deeply with the stadium and viewers worldwide.
Heidi Beckenbauer tribute Euro 2024: Widow of Franz Beckenbauer brings trophy to opening ceremony with German legends
Tournament director Philipp Lahm, who himself captained Germany to World Cup victory in 2014, spoke about the broader significance of Euro 2024. He expressed his hope that the tournament would serve as a unifying force, bringing people together during challenging times. “We must also come together and party,” Lahm stated, emphasizing the need for “more fun and joy and optimism” amidst global conflicts and difficulties. His words highlighted the power of football to transcend boundaries and offer moments of shared celebration and hope.
Euro 2024 Germany opening ceremony: Acrobatic display around European Championship trophy replica
The Euro 2024 opening ceremony, while a spectacle of performance and color, was ultimately defined by its heartfelt tribute to Franz Beckenbauer. It was a reminder of his enduring impact on football and a fitting way to launch a tournament that aims to capture the spirit of unity and joy that Beckenbauer himself often represented. The presence of his widow and fellow legends ensured that his memory was not just acknowledged, but truly celebrated, setting an emotional and respectful tone for the weeks of football to come.
