Actually already abolished
FIFA welcomes DFB team with controversial name
Updated June 21, 2026 – 10:15 amReading time: 1 min.
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The DFB had already abolished the “Die Team” brand in 2022. But he suddenly reappeared at the second World Cup group game in Toronto.
Out of Toronto reports William Laing
After the 7:1 against Curaçao at the start of the tournament, a 2:1 followed German national team in the second game at the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico against Ivory Coast. Shortly before kick-off, the starting lineup was displayed on the stadium scoreboards DFB eleven announced. What was noticeable was that FIFA chose a marketing name for the German team that had already been abolished.
In a video clip that showed scenes from the first game, “The Team” flashed across the screen. The name was dated 2015 DFB was created – primarily to better market the German selection internationally. Seven years after its introduction, the DFB said goodbye to the brand.
In the video | Crazy atmosphere: German fans take over Toronto
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DFB President Bernd Neuendorf explained at the time: “Surveys and analyzes have shown that the name ‘The Team’ is well known and is particularly recognized abroad.” In German fan circles, however, he is “sometimes viewed critically and discussed emotionally.”
How much lasting impact the term had internationally became clear in Toronto. Four years after its abolition, “The Team” is with the WM actually present again.