Germany's DFB retains Völler, eyes Mertesacker role as 2026 World Cup venues open to fans

Rudi Völler, 66, extended his contract with the German Football Association (DFB) until the European Championship 2028, and the federation plans to keep him in its sport‑director role. DFB president Bernd Neuendorf and league chief Hans‑Joachim Watzke are meeting in the United States with head coach Jürgen Klopp to discuss the post‑Nagelsmann staff arrangement, with Völler reportedly open to collaborating with Klopp.

Former defender Per Mertesacker, a 2014 World Cup winner, has stated his willingness to join the DFB after a short vacation, possibly taking on a role similar to Völler’s or a more strategic position. His interest adds another option for the DFB as it looks to shape its leadership ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Meanwhile, fans in the Bodenseekreis region can watch the tournament at numerous public‑viewing sites. Restaurants such as Lammgarten in Friedrichshafen, Wirtshaus am See and Bella Vista in Überlingen, as well as venues like the Western Saloon, the Kulturhaus Caserne, and the municipal halls of Daisendorf, will broadcast Germany’s matches on large screens, many offering free entry and additional entertainment.