Overview

• The Munich prosecutor’s office confirmed a registered insult complaint against Lukas Podolski stemming from his May 31 encounter with Japanese supporters in Munich’s city center.
• Podolski is accused of making remarks perceived as insulting to fans’ Japanese heritage during a UEFA Champions League festival before the final at Allianz Arena.
• Prosecutors will hear testimony from both Podolski and the Japanese fans next week to determine whether to launch formal criminal proceedings.
• The 40-year-old former Germany striker won the 2014 World Cup and played for Japanese club Vissel Kobe from 2017 to 2019, scoring 17 goals in 60 appearances.
• A decision on filing formal charges is expected next week after a legal review of the incident and statements.