International criticism: Lahm also voices discontent over infrastructure issues
The German Railway is collaborating for the Football Euro Championships, but criticisms have emerged across Germany and abroad. Tournament director, Philipp Lahm, acknowledges these concerns about the infrastructure, both domestically and internationally. "I think as a nation, we've neglected investing in infrastructure in the recent decades," Lahm stated in Leipzig.
In response, he assured improvements for the fans: "We're in talks with the German Railway, assuring continued effort to ensure that commuters reach their destinations on time. However, this issue isn't currently cropping up during the tournament. We should have addressed it sooner," stated the 40-year-old.
Lahm himself faced delays, missing the kick-off of the EM match between Ukraine and Slovakia (2:1) in Düsseldorf. "I've been on the train for ten days and have been mostly punctual, but I did experience a delay, which is frustrating, particularly for fans who travel long distances and expend a lot of money," Lahm expressed.
Many passengers anticipated such leniency from Lahm during the initial week of the Euros in Germany. While the tournament as a whole unfolded smoothly, peacefully, and full of exciting sportsmanship, the railway caused frustration. Although Germans may find such issues familiar, they surprised and shocked many international guests, known for their organizational precision.
"Shocking Scenes" at the Stations
A reporter from the well-known "New York Times" cautioned readers about supposed German efficiency after the Euro's early days, focusing on overcrowded trains in Munich before the opening game and hour-long waiting periods on platforms in Gelsenkirchen. Negative feedback was also collected regarding the organization of footpaths to the stadiums and the long queues at entry.
The "New York Times" wasn't the only foreign outlet to be startled by these problems. The English "Daily Mail" reported on "shocking scenes" as thousands of fans had to wait for hours on trams following the England game against Serbia in the early hours to reach their hotels.
Fan groups also voiced complaints, such as the Scottish supporters' association (Atac). They wrote on Facebook that Germany welcomed us warmly as hosts, but they experienced "bad experiences" with public transportation in Munich and Cologne, which were "unreliable and excessively hot," and "overcrowded beyond reasonable capacity with passengers."
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Despite Philipp Lahm's assurance of improved rail services for the European Football Championship 2024, criticisms about the country's infrastructure failings continue to surface. German Railways is currently collaborating with tournament organizers to address these concerns, acknowledging the need for substantial investments in infrastructure to meet the demands of the upcoming championship.
