German President Steinmeier awards athletes and meets citizens in June 2026

On 29 June 2026, President Frank‑Walter Steinmeier hosted a ceremony in Berlin honoring German Olympic and Paralympic medalists with the Silver Laurel Leaf, the nation’s highest sports award. The event, attended by sports official Friedhelm Julius Beucher, featured discussions on youth talent development and promoted Germany’s bids for future Olympic and Paralympic Games. After the ceremony, Steinmeier met Chancellor Olaf Scholz and party leader Friedrich Merz, who highlighted the strategic importance of a successful bid for the 2036, 2040 or 2044 Games.

Later that day, Steinmeier began his "Ortszeit" series in Lörrach, travelling from Basel‑Mulhouse Airport. He was welcomed by Mayor Jörg Lutz, local officials and a crowd of residents who took selfies, exchanged greetings and presented a letter. A small group of seniors from "Grandparents for Future" demonstrated, urging stronger climate action. Steinmeier signed the city’s Golden Book and held a municipal discussion with local politicians.

Both events underscored the president’s role in promoting sports excellence, civic engagement and climate awareness across Germany.