“Words and Sounds” on the 2026 World Cup: How Political Is Soccer? Lecture and Discussion at vhs Aachen

The “Words and Sounds” live journalism series is entering its fifth season. Under the title “Words and Sounds – How Political Is Soccer?”, fact-based, independent reporting will once again come together with art and culture on July 10 at the vhs Aachen forum. The event was founded by Aachen-based journalists Arndt Lorenz and Jens Tervooren and is being held for the second time in cooperation with vhs Aachen. In light of the 2026 World Cup, the focus is on the importance of sports journalism—and especially on the political dimensions of soccer. What political influences are particularly visible in 2026 in the context of the Men’s World Cup? How ideological are such major events, for which even FIFA Peace Prizes are invented? To what extent do racist or sexist forms of discrimination shape contemporary soccer? What barriers do women face in soccer—whether on the field, on the coaching bench, in newsrooms, or in the stands? And what democratic opportunities do fan communities have? The

following speakers will discuss these and other topics:

• Marie Köhler, media artist, curator, and lecturer
• Robin Afamefuna, professional soccer player and captain of Fortuna Cologne, as well as a cultural anthropologist
• Nora Hespers, journalist and author, who has worked for “Zeigler’s Wonderful World of Soccer” and “Sport Inside,” among others
• Dietrich Schulze-Marmeling, soccer historian and author

In keeping with the series’ title, “sounds” will take center stage alongside “words.” Instead of nostalgic national team anthems, this evening will focus on musical interludes: Before the event and during the breaks, classic songs that celebrate soccer in various ways will be played.

And, of course, there will be good drinks to accompany a lively debate.

Event
InformationVenue: vhs, Peterstraße, Room 241,
ForumAdmission: free, no registration
requiredDoors open: 6:00 p.m
.Start of the panel discussion: 7:00 p.m

. The event is a collaboration between “Wörter und Töne,” vhs Aachen, and NRWeltoffen Aachen.