Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s Inklusionswerkself Shines in Genuine World Cup 2025 in Texas

Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s inclusive football team, now known as the Inklusionswerkself, made a remarkable international debut at the Genuine World Cup 2025 held in Houston, Texas. The tournament attracted 40 teams from 23 different nations, each celebrating inclusion and participation in sports. Originally called "Einfach Fußball," the project was rebranded to better reflect its core values of inclusion, participation, and community for people with physical or mental challenges.

Coach Niclas Albers highlighted that the change symbolized the initiative’s growth from a small group of players and two coaches to a well-qualified team of 25 players and five trainers with international recognition. The Genuine World Cup featured an innovative system that reshuffled teams after every match to maintain competitive balance and fair play.

Despite a challenging start, the Werkself clinched notable victories, including an impressive 4-3 comeback against Club América. The competition tested players with various logistical and personal challenges such as language barriers and medical needs, but it also fostered lasting friendships and underscored the significance of international inclusion in football.

German Consul Kai Hennig expressed strong support for the initiative, praising its role in showcasing inclusion globally. The Inklusionswerkself’s participation in this event marks an important milestone in promoting sport as a platform for diversity and community engagement.