Franz Beckenbauer, the iconic German football player and coach who achieved World Cup success in both roles, has sadly passed away at the age of 78, according to reports from the German news agency, dpa.
Known for his easygoing charm, Beckenbauer was revered as one of Germany’s most beloved personalities. His family released a statement, saying, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of my husband and our father, Franz Beckenbauer. He peacefully departed in his sleep, surrounded by his family. We kindly request privacy during this mourning period.”
The cause of his death has not been disclosed, although Beckenbauer had been dealing with health issues in recent years.
A Legendary Career
Beckenbauer’s impact on German football cannot be overstated. As a player, he revolutionized the role of a defender and led West Germany to victory in the 1974 World Cup after previously losing to England in the 1966 final. In 1990, as the coach, he guided Germany to another World Cup triumph, symbolizing the country’s reunification following the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Franz Beckenbauer celebrates with his team after winning the World Cup against Argentina in Rome in 1990. (Image: Frank Kleefeldt / picture alliance via Getty Image)
Beckenbauer played a significant role in bringing the highly successful 2006 World Cup to Germany. However, his legacy was tarnished when allegations of bribery emerged. Despite denying the accusations, he, along with three other committee members, were considered criminal suspects. Eventually, the case ended without a judgment due to the statute of limitations expiring in 2020.
Adored by the Nation
Up until the bribery scandal, Beckenbauer was considered untouchable in the eyes of the German public. Renowned as “Der Kaiser,” he was adored for his positive attitude, willingness to help others, and his open acknowledgment of his own flaws and mistakes.
Born in Munich in 1945, Beckenbauer rose from a working-class background to become one of the greatest football players of all time. He introduced the position of “libero,” a roaming defender who pushed forward to threaten the opponent’s goal—a role rarely seen before his time and now virtually disappeared from modern football.
Beckenbauer’s career was studded with numerous accomplishments, including leading Bayern Munich to three consecutive European Cup titles from 1974 to 1976. He also had a successful stint with the New York Cosmos in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Franz Beckenbauer is pictured in 2010. (Image: Matthias Schrader / AP file)
An Enduring Legacy
Franz Beckenbauer’s contributions to football extended beyond his playing and coaching career. He was a passionate traveler, visiting all 31 countries that participated in the 2006 World Cup held in Germany. His love for exploring new cultures and experiences stemmed from his childhood fascination with collecting pictures for a sticker album.
Despite the legal challenges surrounding the 2006 World Cup, Beckenbauer’s legacy remained intact. He was universally admired in German soccer and society, and his passing marks the end of an era for football enthusiasts worldwide.
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