Bavarian history was vividly celebrated on March 17, 2025, with the FC Bayern Munich Legends Tournament dedicated to the late Franz Beckenbauer. The event brought together not only football legends but also Beckenbauer's family to commemorate his significant contributions to the sport and the club.
Heidi Beckenbauer, the widow of the iconic footballer, and their son Joel were present at the tournament, which sparked deep emotional reflections. Joel took to the stage, sharing his heartfelt thoughts, stating, "The whole body gets goosebumps. I never saw my father play live. It's incredible how many hearts he continues to live on in." His sentiments captured the audience's attention, underscoring the enduring legacy of his father, who passed away on January 7, 2024, at the age of 78.
The event was sold out, drawing around 10,000 passionate supporters to the SAP Garden, as FC Bayern Munich celebrated its 125th anniversary. FC Bayern Munich secured victory against Real Madrid with a convincing 4-0 scoreline, highlighted by two goals from Giovane Elber, alongside contributions from Mark van Bommel and Rafinha. This match showcased former stars, now legends, still shining on the pitch, even years after their prime.
Third place was clinched by VfB Stuttgart, guided by Krassimir Balakow, who outperformed Borussia Dortmund and 2014 World Cup winner Kevin Großkreutz. The triumph of Bayern Munich was celebrated not just as another win but as part of the club's rich history.
Herbert Hainer, the president of FC Bayern, presented Heidi Beckenbauer and Joel with a symbolic check for 75,000 Euros. The proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Franz Beckenbauer Foundation, which supports people with disabilities and those facing difficulties. Hainer remarked, “I am sure Franz was watching. He would have liked this very much.”
Football legends paid tribute throughout the evening, with Lothar Matthäus, record national player and friend of Beckenbauer, expressing, “I believe Franz is watching from above, and he is happy so many people turned up to honor him.” This spirit of camaraderie among the legends added warmth to the event.
Philipp Lahm, who coached the winning Bayern squad, commented on Beckenbauer’s monumental impact, saying, "Franz Beckenbauer did more for German football than anyone else.” His words echoed the sentiments of many present and paid homage to the significance of Beckenbauer's contributions to the game.
The night was not only about remembering Beckenbauer but also included reflections on the future of the club, focusing on current stars like Thomas Müller. Arjen Robben, another Bayern icon, highlighted Müller’s legacy, stating, “What can one say about Thomas? He is already a legend and will always remain at this club. It is incredible what he has delivered.”
Müller, 35, is approaching contract negotiations as his current deal expires at the end of the season, leaving his future with the club uncertain. Bayern's sporting director Max Eberl mentioned upcoming discussions with Müller, Leroy Sané, and Eric Dier, as all three face contract expirations. This marks a pivotal moment as the club contemplates its future directions.
Robben reminisced fondly about his decade with Bayern, emphasizing, "München is my second home." Although currently residing back in the Netherlands with his family, he expressed gratitude for the time spent with family post-retirement, which he felt was necessary during his career.
Despite stepping back from active play, Robben remains connected to the football community through his work with the youth squad at FC Groningen. The prospect of possibly returning to Bayern Munich someday is not completely off the table, but as he stated, “Right now, I’m happy. We’ve moved back to our home, and there’s a reason for it.”
While the legends of the game honored Franz Beckenbauer's legacy, they also cast their eyes toward the future, embodying the rich history and relentless spirit of FC Bayern Munich. With fan engagement and contributions to the community strongly highlighted, the tournament served as both remembrance and inspiration for what lies ahead.
The Franz Beckenbauer Tournament will undoubtedly continue to evoke memories and give back to the community, reinforcing the bond between the club, its legends, and its fans.
