German Football Drives Social Inclusion with Disability Championships and Inclusive Events

The 2026 German Football Championship for workshops for people with disabilities concluded successfully at the Sportschule Wedau, highlighting football’s role in promoting social inclusion. The tournament featured the top 21 workshop teams across Germany, with Rheinland-Pfalz securing the women's title and Wefa Ahorn clinching their first men's championship. The competition also awarded the FairPlay trophies to the women's team from wewole Stiftung in Herne and the men's team from Bremen Martinshof for exemplary sportsmanship.

The event, organized by the DFB Foundation Sepp Herberger in cooperation with the Federal Association of Workshops for Disabled People (BAG WfbM), featured an inclusive referee team for the first time. DFB Vice President and former national player Celia Šašić praised the camaraderie on and off the pitch, stating, "Football thrives on togetherness. I felt that today on the field and in the stands." Additionally, the players participated in a stadium tour at BayArena where World Champion Rudi Völler welcomed them, underlining the event's celebratory spirit.

Continuing the momentum, Rot-Weiss Essen will support inclusive football activities from September 11 to 13 at Kennedyplatz in Essen. The events, hosted with the DFB-Stiftung Sepp Herberger and city partners, will feature the final days of the Blind Football Bundesliga and inclusive tournaments for various age groups. Sports Director Christian Flüthmann will be present to endorse the initiative, which is free to the public.

These initiatives illustrate concerted efforts across Germany to use football as a platform for inclusion, integration, and recognition of people with disabilities, fostering social cohesion through sport.