The delegation’s visit to Israel was a significant event organized by the World Jewish Congress (WJC) and the German Football League (DFL). The purpose of this trip was to combat anti-Semitism and promote remembrance and education within the global sports community. During their visit, they met with the Hostage and Missing Families Forum in Tel Aviv, participated in an evening rally in Hostage Square, and visited Kibbutz Kfar Gaza in the south of the country.
The delegation expressed pride in leading this visit to Israel and emphasized the role of sports as a catalyst for change and a beacon of hope. They were hosted by the family of Neta Epstein, a victim of a tragic attack that significantly affected Kibbutz Kfar Gaza. With participation from the German Football League and WJC, the delegation aimed to honor and remember the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust while combatting anti-Semitism and promoting tolerance.
In conjunction with the upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 tournament in Germany, WJC announced two sports-related initiatives: “Football and Remembrance” initiative connects Euro 2024 participants with Holocaust history, while “Soccer and Memory” uses sport as a bridge to the past. Additionally, WJC launched “Sports. Audiences. Power.” exhibition that explores the role of sports under National Socialism and the fight against anti-Semitism, coinciding with UEFA Euro 2024 tournament.
Overall, this visit highlights how global sports community is working together to combat anti-Semitism while promoting remembrance and education within its members.