Stuttgart’s Squad Engaged in Upcoming Federal Election
The upcoming German federal election has become a topic of conversation within the locker room of VfB Stuttgart, according to head coach Sebastian Hoeneß. "More than I thought," Hoeneß remarked. "The lads are interested in it," the 42-year-old said. "I hope they all go and vote."
Despite the team’s match on election day (7:30 pm CEST/DAZN) away to TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Hoeneß has opted against voting by mail and will cast his ballot at a polling station on Sunday. The Swabian Bundesliga club will not travel to Hoffenheim until the day of the game.
The election, set for September 26th, 2021, will determine the composition of the German Bundestag, the country’s parliament. Citizens over the age of 18 are eligible to vote, and there are a total of 299 electoral districts.
Hoeneß’s comments highlight the growing awareness among professional athletes of their civic responsibilities. In recent years, footballers in particular have become more vocal on social and political issues, using their platforms to advocate for change.
"I think it’s important for everyone to have an opinion and to make their voices heard," said VfB Stuttgart midfielder Wataru Endo. "We as footballers have a lot of young fans, so it’s important for us to set a good example and show them that it’s important to participate in the democratic process."
The election is expected to be closely contested, with the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), and the Green Party all vying for victory. The outcome of the election will have significant implications for Germany’s future, with key policy areas such as climate change, healthcare, and education likely to be affected.
"I hope that the German people will go out and vote," Hoeneß said. "It’s a very important election, and it’s important for everyone to have a say in the future of our country."
VfB Stuttgart’s engagement with the upcoming election is a positive sign of the growing civic awareness among professional athletes. By encouraging their players to vote, coaches like Hoeneß are helping to promote the importance of political participation and ensure that the voices of young people are heard.
