️ Following Germany's early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a viral claim on social media alleged that Deutsche Welle (DW) reported on a petition by German fans to ban African and Muslim players from the national team. DW's fact-check has found this claim to be false.

️ Germany lost to Paraguay 4-3 on penalties in the round of 32, with midfielder Jonathan Tah missing the decisive spot-kick. Subsequently, racist comments appeared on Tah's social media. A Spanish-language post on X, viewed over 2 million times, claimed DW had reported on a petition to exclude African and Muslim players.

️ DW stated it never published such a report and found no evidence from other media outlets. The German Football Association (DFB) told DW it was unaware of any such petition, adding: "The content of such a claim blatantly contradicts the values that the DFB stands for. The DFB is firmly committed to diversity, integration, and respectful coexistence."

️ DW searched Google and petition platforms like Change.org and OpenPetition.de, finding no such petition. The accounts spreading the claim did not respond to requests for evidence. Racism in football is a recurring issue, as seen after England's Euro 2020 final defeat when three Black players faced abuse. For the 2026 World Cup, a new rule allows red cards for players covering their mouths during confrontations to combat racism.

️ DW regularly reports on racism in football, but the specific claim about a petition against African and Muslim players is false.

Source: www.dw.com