“RONZHEIMER.” has just been awarded the BAMBI 2025 in the “Culture” category. Paul Ronzheimer impressively demonstrates how podcasts as a cultural medium can inspire, inform and unite people.
This year, Toni Kroos made history by winning the Champions League for the sixth time with Real Madrid. With 34 titles to his name, he is now the most successful German footballer of all time. His return to the German national team for the 2024 European Championship, held in his home country, was nothing short of unforgettable. As a 2014 World Cup champion, Kroos inspired many with his fighting spirit and playmaking skills. His presence reignited excitement across football-loving Germany, restoring a sense of unity and palpable euphoria — largely thanks to his efforts. Following the European Championship in Germany, the extraordinary athlete announced his retirement. Beyond his exceptional talent on the field, Toni Kroos has been dedicated to philanthropy for nearly a decade through his foundation, which supports children and young people. For his unparalleled career and social commitment, Toni Kroos is honoured with the BAMBI in the ‘Sports’ category.
The BAMBI jury noted,
"Toni Kroos is a star player and a genius playmaker. He controls the game from midfield, with an uncanny ability to recognise the perfect moment to strike. His pace, precise long-distance passing, and unassuming authority have brought a new dimension to German football. Kroos exemplifies two essential football virtues: an intense focus and unstoppable strength in solo play. At the same time, he possesses the team spirit to create sophisticated goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates. His exemplary social engagement through the Toni Kroos Foundation, which supports young people facing health challenges, makes him one of the most exceptional figures in German football."
In 2015, the Greifswald-born player founded the non-profit Toni Kroos Foundation to support children and young people with serious health issues, as well as their families. As a father of three, this cause is particularly close to his heart. He even auctioned off the jersey he wore in the 2014 World Cup final to raise money for his foundation.
Born in 1990, Toni Kroos began his football journey in the youth teams of Greifswalder SC and Hansa Rostock. At age 16, he joined FC Bayern Munich, later being loaned to Bayer 04 Leverkusen for a year and a half. From the 2010/11 season onwards, Kroos returned to Bayern Munich, where he went on to win three Bundesliga titles and three German Cups. In 2013, he completed the treble with Bayern, winning the Bundesliga, the German Cup, and the Champions League. In 2014, Kroos transferred to Real Madrid, where he became a four-time Spanish champion and six-time Champions League winner. Kroos also represented Germany in three World Cups and four European Championships, winning the World Cup in 2014 in Brazil.
Toni Kroos will personally accept the BAMBI in the ‘Sports’ category at the prestigious awards ceremony at the Bavaria Film Studios in Munich on November 7th.
Since 1948, BAMBI has honoured individuals who have made a significant impact in Germany, achieved outstanding accomplishments, and serve as role models for the German public. This year, the award will be presented in up to twelve categories. BAMBI’s media partner is Prime Video, and the event will be streamed live from Bavaria Film Studios on November 7th, 2024, starting at 8 pm CET.
