FIFA WC 2026: 'Every edition brings extraordinary talent and emotion,' says Oliver Kahn
New Delhi, June 26
German football icon and Golden Ball winner Oliver Kahn believes that the FIFA World Cup is a tournament that brings out extraordinary talent and emotions from all around the World.
According to the former Bayern Munich goalkeeper, despite the club competitions getting a lot of value, the FIFA World Cup remains the ultimate prize.
"The FIFA World Cup is the ultimate stage in football-a tournament that inspires millions and creates moments that become part of sporting history. Every edition brings together extraordinary talent, passion, and emotion, making it one of the most captivating events in global sport," Kahn told Zee5.
Former Germany captain has also expressed satisfaction with the growth of football in India and said that he is excited to share his insights with the fans as he joins Zee5 coverage for the ongoing tournament.
"I am delighted to join Zee 5 and Unite8 Sports as part of the expert panel and look forward to sharing my insights with fans across India. The growth of football in the country has been remarkable, and it is exciting to be part of bringing the tournament experience even closer to audiences," he added.
A former captain of Germany, Kahn represented his country from 1995 to 2006, earning 86 international caps and leading the national team to the FIFA World Cup 2002 final. His extraordinary performances during that tournament saw him become the only goalkeeper in FIFA World Cup history to win the Golden Ball as the competition's best player, while also being recognized as the tournament's outstanding goalkeeper.
Renowned for his remarkable career with Germany and Bayern Munich, Kahn's leadership, consistency, and winning mentality have cemented his legacy as one of football's all-time greats. Following his illustrious playing career, he has continued to shape the game as a football executive, commentator, analyst, author, and one of the sport's most influential voices.
Kahn also shares a long-standing connection with India. He first visited the country in 2008 when Bayern Munich played his farewell match against Mohun Bagan in Kolkata, and returned again in 2023, engaging with fans, students, and stakeholders while sharing insights on the development of football in the country.
With decades of experience at the highest level of international football, Kahn will bring sharp tactical analysis, unique perspectives from inside elite dressing rooms, and expert commentary on the players, teams, and defining moments shaping this year's tournament. He joins an esteemed panel of experts on Zee 5, including legends Bhaichung Bhutia, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, and Igor Stimac, among others
— IANS
Reader Comments
I still remember that 2008 match in Kolkata when Bayern played Mohun Bagan for Kahn's farewell! What a night that was - the atmosphere at the Salt Lake Stadium was electric. He truly has a special connection with India. Looking forward to his analysis on Zee5 during the World Cup.
The Golden Ball winner for a goalkeeper? That speaks volumes about his class. Kahn is absolutely right - club football gets all the money but the World Cup remains the pinnacle. I just hope India can qualify someday and experience that magic firsthand.
Yaar, but Oliver Kahn's German is as intense as his goalkeeping! 😂 But seriously, having him alongside Bhutia and Stimac on the panel is going to be top-notch analysis. Zee5 is really stepping up their game for the World Cup coverage. Hope they do justice to Indian football too!
He's not wrong - the World Cup does bring something special. But let's be honest, India's football growth is still in its infancy. We need more grassroots investment and better infrastructure. Having legends like Kahn commentating is nice, but it won't develop players. Just saying.
The man who made 'keeper an art form! Kahn's leadership and intensity were unmatched. I'm thrilled he's coming to Zee5 - our football fans deserve world-class analysis. And yes, football is growing in India - the ISL has helped massively. Let's hope we see India at the World Cup in 2030 or 2034! 🇮🇳
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