Starting next season, the German Super Cup will be officially known as the Franz Beckenbauer Super Cup, the German Football Association (DFB) announced on Friday. This tribute honors one of the most iconic figures in German and world football history.

Heidi Beckenbauer, the widow of Franz Beckenbauer, expressed her gratitude for this significant recognition, stating:
"Franz would have loved to see the match between the German champion and the DFB-Pokal winner bear his name. Especially because he won both competitions several times."

She also thanked DFB President Bernd Neuendorf and German Football League (DFL) President Hans-Joachim Watzke for their role in making this tribute possible.

Honoring "The Kaiser"

Bernd Neuendorf, president of the DFB, highlighted the lasting impact of Beckenbauer on the sport:
"What he achieved for football is unparalleled and unforgettable. By naming the Super Cup after Franz Beckenbauer, we create a lasting connection between his legacy and the sport at all levels—from professionals to amateurs competing in the DFB-Pokal."

Hans-Joachim Watzke emphasized Beckenbauer's influence on the Bundesliga, calling him a "true son of the league."

The Legend of Franz Beckenbauer

Known as "The Kaiser", Franz Beckenbauer led Germany to victory in the 1974 World Cup as a player and the 1990 World Cup as a coach. He also chaired the 2006 World Cup organizing committee, cementing his legacy as one of football's most influential figures.

With this decision, the Super Cup will not only showcase a clash between the Bundesliga champion and the DFB-Pokal winner but also serve as a permanent tribute to one of football’s greatest legends.