Legend Sepp Maier receives Bavarian Sports Prize - memory of Beckenbauer!

Legend Sepp Maier receives Bavarian Sports Prize - memory of Beckenbauer!

Bayern, Deutschland - Sepp Maier, the legendary goalkeeper, was able to enjoy a special recognition: the Bavarian Sports Award, which was personally awarded by the Bavarian Prime Minister. But on this festive opportunity he was not only the focus. Together with his former teammates Paul Breitner and Franz Roth, Maier recalled one of the most dazzling personalities in German football, Franz Beckenbauer, who died at the beginning of the year at the age of 78.

"Franz was certainly one of the most important people in our lives for all of us and for many others," said Breitner. He emphasized that the life of a football without a Beckenbauer "would certainly not be so successful, not so beautiful, not so enjoyable". Beckenbauer, whom many call "emperors", was not only an outstanding player, but also a friend whose presence on the field was always a pleasure.

an unforgettable friend

Franz Roth added: "Franz was an exceptional, there is no such thing again. He was a great person and a great friend." Maier himself praised the positive charisma and support that Beckenbauer offered his teammates. At the awarding of the price, which was broadcast on BR television, he had taken the floor to share his memories of the time with Beckenbauer. "He always had an open ear and always helped you," said Maier.

Prime Minister Markus Söder described the 80-year-old as a "outstanding athlete and a football legend" who revolutionized the goalkeeper game both at Bayern Munich and the national team. "He completely reinvented the goalkeeper game and through him the goalkeeper only became a goalkeeper." This appreciation not only pays respect for Maier, but also emphasizes his role as a goalkeeper coach, who has passed on his extensive knowledge to the younger generations.

Maier: A symbol for Bavaria

With the awarding of the personal prize of the Prime Minister, Maier is recognized for sporting success in Bavaria. The former goalkeeper not only won the European championship title in 1972, but also two years later the world championship title. He also looks back on an impressive club career, during which he was active for FC Bayern Munich in a total of 706 competitive games.

The awarding of the Bavarian Sports Award was not only a tribute to Maier, but also to other outstanding personalities of sport. Among the excellent athletes was the snowboarder Ramona Hofmeister, who was honored for her extraordinary career. The TV presenter Esther Sedlaczek received recognition for her outstanding presentation of sport, while Norbert Loch, the long-time tobogganing coach, was awarded for his life's work.

The award ceremony under the motto "Gold in Paris" also recognizes the Bavarian gold medalists of the upcoming Olympic Games and Paralympics 2024 in Paris. An event full of emotions, honors and memories of one of the largest German footballers who remains unforgettable while the next generations are inspired by athletes.

For further information on the award winners and the event, .