DFB President Bernd Neuendorf has pushed back against criticism concerning his reserved approach to sports policy issues in the context of the World Cup. The 64-year-old stated in New York on Friday (local time) that one can be assured he is addressing these matters. However, he stressed the necessity of tact and diplomacy, noting that it is not helpful to publicize everything he knows.
According to Neuendorf, who is a member of the FIFA Council and has repeatedly defended the controversial awarding of the ‘FIFA Peace Prize’ to US President Donald Trump, it is sometimes more effective to engage in quiet, behind-the-scenes discussions. He added that if action is required, there are appropriate contacts available for trusted engagement.
The DFB chief cited efforts to secure more affordable World Cup tickets and the demand for higher prize money as successful examples. «As Europeans, we managed this with FIFA. These are issues that can be discussed calmly with those known to be decision-makers. And this is happening,» Neuendorf stated.
DFB Pledges Support for Ivory Coast Fans
The German Football Association (DFB) also intends to advocate for the supporters of Germany’s group opponent, Ivory Coast, who, according to a fan association, have been denied visas to enter the USA. Neuendorf expressed uncertainty about the final decision but indicated that if visas are indeed denied, it would be an «unfathomable» process. He assured that he is taking care of these matters.
The visa process for travel to the World Cup has been a recurring headline for weeks. Fans from Iran, Haiti, and Senegal are also reportedly unable to enter the USA, according to the American Immigration Council. Germany is scheduled to play Ivory Coast on June 20th in Toronto, Canada.