On February 27, 2025, FC Bayern Munich marked its 125th anniversary with celebratory fervor at the Paulaner am Nockherberg, where approximately 650 esteemed guests from sports, politics, and society gathered to honor the club's storied history. The evening featured television host Günther Jauch, who moderated the event-filled with engaging discussions among former and current Bayern personalities, heartfelt speeches, film clips, and entertaining show acts.
Jan-Christian Dreesen, the chairman of FC Bayern, opened the gala by emphasizing the importance of having roots and a solid foundation. He noted, "Wurzeln zu haben und ein Fundament, ist wichtig – und das feiern wir heute." Dreesen reflected on the club's humble beginnings back in 1900, when eleven enthusiasts formed the club at Café Gisela, never imagining the legacy it would engender.
The celebration served as more than just nostalgia; it also spotlighted the club's achievements, including its rise to become the first football club globally to surpass 400,000 members. FC Bayern's president Herbert Hainer called the club "ein Club der Allesgewinner und Rekordeaufsteller" (a club of all winners and record-setters) and praised its tradition of innovation and excellence.
During the event, notable figures such as Uli Hoeneß and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge shared fond recollections and insights from their times at the club. Rummenigge described Bayern's evolution dramatically: "Aus dem Baby ist ein stolzer Erwachsener geworden... Die gibt es, und zwar mit weitem Abstand: Franz Beckenbauer!" His homage to the late Franz Beckenbauer reflects the overall sentiment of the evening, as former stars and their contributions to the club’s success filled the conversation.
Hoeneß shared his views on the current challenges facing international football, indicating optimism due to the strength of Bayern's management, stating, "Wir haben ein gutes Team im Aufsichtsrat und im Vorstand, daher werde der FC Bayern die Herausforderungen der Zukunft meistern" (we have a good team on the supervisory board and management, so FC Bayern will master the challenges of the future).
Among the celebratory attendees were numerous football legends like Philipp Lahm, Oliver Kahn, and Michael Ballack, alongside the current squad, including stars like Manuel Neuer and Harry Kane. The presence of political figures such as Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder added gravity to the event, where he recognized the unbreakable bond between FC Bayern and the state of Bavaria, saying, "Der FC Bayern und der Freistaat Bayern sind untrennbar verbunden" (FC Bayern and the Free State of Bavaria are unbreakable). He humorously added, "Normalerweise ist Rot nicht meine Farbe, aber hier kann ich sie akzeptieren."
The commemoration was rich with emotion, highlighting FC Bayern's legacy but also confronting its future. There was much reverence for past vintages, as attendees reflected on the club's longstanding motto, "Mia san mia" (we are who we are), symbolizing Bavarian pride and determination. The event was animated with performances, including something lighthearted from the iconic Munich band Spider Murphy Gang, leading up to the midnight celebration when the tap of beer was ceremoniously initiated.
The evening was not without its poignant moments; Hoeneß led the audience to honor legends like Gerd Müller and Franz Beckenbauer by asking for acknowledgment and reflection on their contributions. This culminated with laughter, tears, and shared memories of triumphs on the pitch and the challenges faced by the club throughout its long, storied history.
Reflecting on the club's pivotal phases, the narrative shifted from the early days, overcoming challenges during the Nazi regime, to enjoying golden eras with players like Beckenbauer and Müller, right through to their modern triumphs both domestically and on the European stage. This historical perspective provided attendees with both pride and perspective as they celebrated not just the past but also looked forward to FC Bayern's future.
With the eve of such important milestones, the call for unity resounded throughout the halls of the Paulaner. The message, as voiced by Dreesen, was clear: "Wir bewahren unsere Wurzeln, pflegen unsere Traditionen" (we preserve our roots, nurture our traditions), assuring fans and members alike of the club's commitment to its core values even as it navigates the challenges of modern football.
Through the lens of their historic past, FC Bayern Munich remains focused on securing its identity, balancing innovation with tradition, and aspiring to continue its legacy of excellence as it prepares for another illustrious century.