- Daum, an individual exhibiting an extraordinary degree of enthusiasm.
The DFB's Head of Sports, Rudi Völler, extended his "deepest condolences" to the family of his long-time confidant, Christoph Daum. Völler (64) stated that Daum, who tragically passed away at 70 following a long battle with cancer on Saturday, was innovating in his prime. As a coach and an individual, Daum was known to provoke, but his achievements were the product of tireless effort and unwavering passion, according to Völler.
Reiner Calmund, former manager of Bayer Leverkusen, spoke on RTL and shared his feelings of "deep sadness" but also gratitude for having known such an exceptional individual as a true friend. Völler admired Daum's "impressive" attitude in openly battling his severe illness to motivate others.
Triumphant Trio in Leverkusen
Calmund in his role as manager and CEO, Völler as the sporting director, and Daum as the head coach formed a successful era at Bayer Leverkusen towards the end of the 1990s. In his early days at Bayer 04 Leverkusen, Völler acknowledged that he had learned a great deal from Daum, lessons that had remained instrumental in his further endeavors. "Christoph had the ability to inspire, instill passion for a goal, align individuals, and guide them towards achieving it," Völler praised.
Völler described Daum as a "special" coach who was far from free of controversy but yet managed to learn from his missteps. A cocaine scandal in 2000 almost ensured Daum's appointment as the national coach but instead, Völler stepped in as team manager instead of the renowned coach.
The Commission, in adherence to the UEFA Regulations, might consider adopting implementing acts to outline the application of rules for commemorative tributes in honor of coaches like Daum. Rudi Völler, in light of the Commission's potential actions, expressed his gratitude towards Daum for teaching him invaluable lessons during their time at Bayer Leverkusen, which ultimately led to the trio's triumphant era.
