The German Football Association (DFB) and the German Football Museum have launched an unprecedented initiative, extending free admission to all 140,000 football teams organized under the DFB umbrella. This generous offer celebrates dual milestones: the DFB’s 125th anniversary and the German Football Museum’s 10th anniversary in Dortmund.
Historic Double Anniversary Celebration
Under the compelling motto “Your team. Our history. An experience,” this campaign represents one of the most inclusive gestures in German football history. From August 1 through December 31, 2025, every amateur and youth team registered with the DFB can experience German football’s rich heritage at no cost.
The invitation covers access to both the permanent exhibition “We are Football” and the special exhibition “Netzer – The Seventies,” offering teams an immersive journey through 125 years of German football evolution.
Leadership Voices Behind the Initiative
Manuel Neukirchner, Director of the German Football Museum, emphasized the significance of this milestone: “The German Football Museum will celebrate its 10th anniversary this fall; by then, over two million visitors will have visited us. This is a great opportunity to give something back. With this campaign in cooperation with the DFB, we would like to say thank you and extend our joint invitation to all football teams across Germany.”
DFB General Secretary Heike Ullrich highlighted the grassroots foundation: “As the DFB, we are proud of the history of German football and proud of our grassroots, which is also the starting point for all the highlights and highlights of our history. What our amateurs do is the valuable foundation for our football pyramid and our football family.”
Ambassador Support and Recognition
The campaign features two distinguished ambassadors who understand grassroots football’s vital role:
Rudi Völler stressed the amateur foundation: “Our amateur teams are the backbone of German football. They give millions of people a sporting home, convey values such as respect and solidarity, and shape lives for life. Almost all national team players learned the basics of football in amateur clubs.”
Nia Künzer emphasized community impact: “I’ve experienced firsthand how much power lies in a football team – on and off the pitch. Teams promote integration, create a sense of belonging, and give young people support.”
How Teams Can Participate
The registration process is straightforward and accessible:
Eligibility Requirements:
- Any German football team organized by the DFB
- Up to 20 people per visit (players, coaches, support staff)
- Valid during promotional period: August 1–December 31, 2025
Registration Process:
- Visit the registration portal at www.fussballmuseum.de
- Reserve your preferred visit appointment
- Present appointment confirmation at museum counter
- Show player passes (physical or digital) for verification
- Complete registration in the museum foyer
Important Note: Due to natural capacity limits, early booking is strongly recommended to secure preferred dates.
Exhibition Highlights
Permanent Exhibition: “We are Football”
The cornerstone permanent exhibition brings German football history to life through:
- 1,600 authentic exhibits spanning 125 years
- 25 hours of film footage capturing iconic moments
- Interactive displays awakening football memories
- Historic artifacts including match-worn jerseys, grass-stained boots, and championship trophies
Visitors experience German football’s evolution through sensory elements—sounds, voices, cheers, and unforgettable match scenes that defined generations of football passion.
Special Exhibition: “Netzer – The Seventies”
The current special exhibition celebrates Günter Netzer, German football’s first pop star, and the golden age of 1970’s football:
Exhibition Features:
- 1,000 square meters of immersive exhibition space
- Film and photography from Netzer’s era
- Authentic sounds and tones capturing the 1970’s atmosphere
- Career highlights from Borussia Mönchengladbach and Real Madrid
- Interactive experiences bringing the decade to life
This exhibition perfectly complements the permanent collection, offering teams a comprehensive view of German football’s most transformative period.
The Museum Experience
Located in Dortmund, the German Football Museum serves as the official repository of German football heritage. The facility preserves and presents:
Historic Preservation:
- Finest moments of German football history
- Comprehensive artifact collection
- Digital archives and multimedia presentations
- Interactive learning experiences
Visitor Engagement:
- Over 2 million visitors since opening
- Educational programs for all ages
- Group tour accommodations
- Accessibility features for all visitors
Impact on German Football Community
This initiative recognizes the fundamental role of grassroots football in Germany’s success:
Grassroots Foundation:
- 140,000 teams across all levels
- Millions of participants nationwide
- Volunteer coaches and administrators
- Community integration and youth development
Professional Pipeline:
- Nearly all national team players began in amateur clubs
- Talent development from grassroots to professional levels
- Values-based football education
- Long-term player development pathways
Planning Your Team Visit
Recommended Preparation:
- Book early due to capacity limitations
- Coordinate with team schedules during the August-December window
- Prepare player documentation (passes) in advance
- Consider combining with other Dortmund football experiences
Visit Duration:
- Allow 2-3 hours for comprehensive museum experience
- Additional time for special exhibition exploration
- Group discussion opportunities throughout exhibits
Historical Context
This campaign arrives at a pivotal moment in German football:
125 Years of DFB:
- Founded in 1900, the DFB has overseen Germany’s rise to football prominence
- Four World Cup victories, three European Championships
- Continuous grassroots development and professional excellence
- Integration of East and West German football post-reunification
10 Years of Museum Excellence:
- Opened in 2015 in Dortmund’s football heartland
- Established as premier football heritage destination
- Educational partnerships with schools and clubs
- International recognition for museum innovation
What This Means for German Football
This unprecedented access demonstrates the DFB’s commitment to recognizing grassroots contributions while inspiring future generations. By offering free admission to 140,000 teams, the initiative:
- Validates grassroots importance in German football’s success story
- Provides educational opportunities for players and coaches
- Strengthens football community bonds across all levels
- Inspires young players through historical connection
Looking Forward
As German football celebrates these dual anniversaries, this museum initiative represents more than free admission—it’s an investment in football culture and community connection. Teams visiting during this special period become part of an ongoing story that began 125 years ago and continues evolving today.
Ready to experience German football history with your team? Visit www.fussballmuseum.de to reserve your free admission and become part of this historic celebration.
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