Bild mocks Merz over post praising Germany’s World Cup campaign

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has made himself a laughingstock by publishing a “bizarre post” praising Germany’s national football team after its elimination from the World Cup, according to the newspaper Bild.

Following Germany’s defeat to Paraguay, Merz wrote on X: “Although the elimination is painful: what a game! Your dedication and team spirit at this World Cup brought joy to our country. We are proud of you.”

Auch wenn das Ausscheiden schmerzt: Was für ein Spiel, @DFB_Team! Mit eurem Einsatz und Teamgeist bei dieser WM habt ihr unser Land begeistert. Wir sind stolz auf euch. pic.twitter.com/TCMfDH6ROS

— Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz (@bundeskanzler) June 29, 2026

Bild noted that many fans viewed Germany’s tournament performance very differently and that the chancellor’s message sparked confusion. “On X, people began asking what match the chancellor had actually been watching,” the newspaper wrote.

The publication argued that Germany played slowly, produced uninspiring football and performed “as if in a lethargic dream.” “Delight? Incorrect,” the article stated.

Bild editor-in-chief Marion Horn published a separate commentary criticising Merz’s remarks, describing the post as dreadful.

“Friedrich Merz is obviously living in a parallel world, just like [head coach] Julian Nagelsmann, who did not even see fit to resign. Neither of them is capable of recognising their own mistakes or taking responsibility,” she wrote.

On June 30, Paraguay defeated Germany in a penalty shootout in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup. Most analysts and commentators have agreed that Germany delivered a largely underwhelming performance throughout the tournament.

By Jeyhun Aghazada