HSV Coach Steffen Baumgart Criticizes Political Handling of AfD Surge

Baumgart calls for constructive dialogue on democracy and rejects politicization of football in addressing societal issues.

Steffen Baumgart, coach of Hamburger SV, has urged for a thoughtful approach to engaging with the AfD, emphasizing the importance of addressing frustrations in a democracy.
Baumgart attributed the rise of the AfD in eastern Germany to political failures in connecting with citizens who feel overlooked or ignored.
He highlighted that the AfD's support is not confined to eastern Germany, stressing it is a broader national issue requiring attention.
The coach criticized the politicization of football, referencing the 2022 Qatar World Cup as an example of misguided attempts to tie the sport to political agendas.
Baumgart also pointed out the disconnect between political narratives about East Germany's history and the lived experiences of those from the region.