Germany’s first black national team player pays tribute to Beckenbauer
Erwin Kostedde, Germany’s first black national team player, has paid homage to the late football legend Franz Beckenbauer, crediting him with giving him the opportunity to play at Wembley. Beckenbauer, widely regarded as one of the sport’s all-time greats, passed away at the age of 78 last weekend. Kostedde, who faced racism from some of his teammates during his playing career, found solace in Beckenbauer’s support and recalled how the iconic figure ensured his second international appearance in a friendly against England at Wembley in March 1975.
Reflecting on the challenging atmosphere in the dressing room and his decisive moment in the spotlight, Kostedde shared his experience with dw.com, stating, Some of my teammates were racists. When I went to the showers, then they looked… ‘What does the black guy do in our team?’ However, Beckenbauer stood by him, saying, You’re playing! This unwavering support allowed Kostedde to showcase his skills on one of the most prestigious football stages in the world—Wembley. Kostedde expressed his profound gratitude, emphasizing, I’ve played at Wembley. Beckenbauer did that. Otherwise I wouldn’t have.
Beckenbauer cemented his status as a football luminary by captaining West Germany to victory in the 1974 World Cup as a player and then leading the team to another triumph as their manager in 1990. He further left his mark on the sport by accumulating over 500 appearances for Bayern Munich. Kostedde’s acknowledgment of Beckenbauer’s instrumental role in his career sheds light on the human side of a legendary figure who not only excelled on the pitch but also went above and beyond to uplift and support individuals facing adversity.
Having made his international debut in December 1974, Kostedde faced challenges within the German national team setup. Not everyone liked me. I could tell it, he revealed. Some didn’t speak to me at all. And I could feel some were racists by their behavior. Kostedde’s reflections highlight the considerable strides that football and society as a whole have made in terms of diversity and inclusion over the years, while also serving as a reminder of the work that still lies ahead.
As the footballing world mourns the loss of Franz Beckenbauer, Kostedde’s tribute serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of allies and advocates who use their platform to effect positive change. Beckenbauer not only left an indelible mark on the sport but also touched the lives of those who faced adversity with grace and compassion. He is survived by his wife, Heidi, and four children. The football community now joins together in celebrating Beckenbauer’s remarkable legacy, remembering him as both a sporting icon and a champion of inclusivity.
FRANZ BECKENBAUER HONOURS
As a player: 5 x Bundesliga, 4 x DFB-Pokal, 4 x German Footballer of the Year, 3 x European Cup, 3 x North American Soccer League, 2 x Ballon d’Or, 1 x European Championship, 1 x FIFA World Cup, 1 x Cup Winners’ Cup, 1 x Intercontinental Cup
As a coach: 1 x FIFA World Cup, 1 x Bundesliga, 1 x Ligue 1, 1 x UEFA Cup
