Overview

• Joshua Kimmich traveled by private jet from Berlin to Mainz on March 15, 2025, to appear on ZDF's 'Aktuelle Sportstudio' after a Bundesliga match.
• The 580-kilometer journey was deemed necessary to ensure his timely arrival at the live program, as other travel options were not feasible.
• The cost of the flight, estimated at over 8,000 euros, was covered by ZDF using public license fees, sparking criticism over the use of public funds.
• ZDF defended the expense as an exceptional case but has not disclosed the exact cost or responded to further inquiries about the decision.
• Kimmich's appearance on the program included discussions about his recent contract extension with Bayern Munich, reportedly worth 20 million euros annually.