Spectacular inaugurated in Munich for UEFA EURO 2024

Münchner Kindl stands for a football atmosphere in the city

Just over a week before the UEFA EURO 2024 kicks off with the opening match between Germany and Scotland in Munich, soccer fever is on the rise in the city. The latest attraction for the European Championships: the giant Spectacular on Marienplatz directly in front of the New Town Hall. On June 6, the three-metre-high sculpture of the Munich child with the European Championship trophy in one hand and a soccer in the other was inaugurated on lush green soccer turf.

The open arms of the figure symbolize the cosmopolitan and welcoming attitude of Host City Munich. The slogans “#simplymunich”, “#hockdiher” and “#unitedbyfootball” can be found on the base of the figure. The hashtags are intended to encourage interactive exchange. The Spectacular symbolizes the connection between the sports city of Munich and the soccer festival of the European Championships.

During the tournament weeks until July 14, fans from Munich and all over Europe can come together here: Whether as a selfie spot, to eat a pretzel in peace and quiet and take a short break in the shade of the Kindl, for a friendly exchange with other soccer fans - during the European Championships, the motto in Munich city center will once again be: “Meet us at the Spectacular!” and the fish fountain will have temporary competition.

The volunteers who are helping out at EURO 2024 and looking after fans who have traveled to the games, among other things, can also be found around the #6Spieledahoam at the Spectacular - they can be recognized by their green shirts and high spirits.

Benches expand the Spectacular concept

The Spectacular concept will even be expanded in the week of the start of the tournament: with six more benches in the colors of EURO 2024. From the fan zone in the Olympic Park to the esplanade in front of the Munich Football Arena to the airport, from the Münchner Freiheit and the Isartor to the “Stadium of Dreams” in front of the Fat Cat event location: the message here is #hockdiher.

The aim: to harness the power of soccer. To bring people from all over the world together. To bring values to life. In short: to create encounters. People from different backgrounds should meet on the benches, people who would not come together in this way without soccer. The highlight of #hockdiher is a series of events on the benches. This is where exciting discussion partners meet to talk about topics that highlight the power of #unitedbyfootball.

“The anticipation for EURO 2024 is great”

Verena Dietl, Third Mayor, is looking forward to the tournament in the host city of Munich at the Spectacular inauguration: “I am very happy here in the town hall when I look out from the balcony and see all our guests, when the city fills up again and Munich can show itself from its best side. You can see how connected we are here at Münchner Kindl. I'm looking forward to the opening game and the other five games we're playing in Munich. And that the connection between Munich as a sporting city, a major sporting event and the warmth of Munich is once again fully present here."

Sports officer Florian Kraus emphasized the colorful supporting program that the city is also putting together away from the Munich Arena: “The anticipation for EURO 2024 is great. The opening match between Germany and Scotland is just over a week away and the Fan Zone, for which we are responsible as the host city, is almost ready and will be available for 20,000 to 30,000 fans. We have a large cultural supporting program: there will be public viewing in the city and, in connection with the Spectacular, there will also be six benches in the colors of EURO 2024 in the city where fans can meet. There they can talk about topics and perhaps even give tips on who will be European champion."

At the inauguration ceremony, Clemens Baumgärtner, Head of Economic Affairs, pointed out the positive effect the European Championships will have on tourism and the economy in Munich: “The European Championships in Munich: All good things come in threes. We have a wonderful reputation as a sports city. We will welcome many tourists to Munich, who will of course also leave money and fill the city's coffers. And we will have a good time for our Munich residents.I wish everyone relaxed games:Watch them, join in the excitement!"