Jürgen Klopp Honored at 20th Deutsche Akademie für Fußballkultur Gala in Nürnberg

The 20th Deutsche Akademie für Fußballkultur Gala took place in Nürnberg, recognizing key figures and initiatives in German football culture. Jürgen Klopp received the prestigious Walther-Bensemann-Preis, celebrating his influential coaching career with Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool. At the gala, Klopp expressed pride in the award and acknowledged mentors Christian Heidel and Hans-Joachim Watzke, both present at the event. Demonstrating his commitment to inclusivity, Klopp pledged to donate his €10,000 prize money to 'KickIn – Beratungsstelle Inklusion im Fußball'.

Other highlights included Nils Petersen winning the Fußballspruch des Jahres with a humorous quote about his substitute player experience, besting Lothar Matthäus in a public vote. Barbi Marcović made history as the first female author to win Fußballbuch des Jahres for her 'Piksi-Buch,' which explores themes of toxic masculinity through the story of a girl growing up in 1980s and 1990s Belgrade. The Fanpreis was awarded to the Inklusive Fanclubs der TSG Wilhelmsdorf, recognized for their promotion of accessibility in football. Klopp also donated an additional €5,000 to support their efforts.

The gala emphasized accessibility, featuring sign language interpretation and facilities for attendees with mobility challenges. The event also marked a poignant moment as Birgitt Glöckl, the long-time head of the academy, announced she will be leaving her position at year-end.