Germany invites young voices to commentate on women's and men's dfb-pokal finals

Germany's football federation is tapping into a new generation of talent. The DFB-Pokal finals – both men's and women's – will feature live commentary from young people aged 11 to 16, broadcast on kika.de and the KiKA app.

Kids take the mic: dfb-pokal finals get youth commentary

The initiative, a collaboration between KiKA, ARD, and ZDF, aims to bring fresh perspectives to the prestigious cup final matches. Viewers can submit short video applications by April 12th, vying for a spot as a commentator alongside a professional voice. The women's final will take place on May 14th in Cologne, followed by the men's final on May 23rd in Berlin.

This isn't a first for KiKA. Last year, children already provided commentary during a women's national league match between Germany and Scotland, marking a shift in sports broadcasting. The program offers a unique opportunity for young people to engage with the sport at a high level.

The selection process will choose two young commentators to accompany a seasoned professional. The application requires a short video submission, allowing potential commentators to showcase their enthusiasm and knowledge of the game. This move by the broadcasters is likely to resonate with younger audiences and inject new energy into the coverage.

The finals will be streamed live, providing a platform for these young voices to reach a wide audience. The involvement of children highlights a broader trend in sports media to embrace diverse perspectives and connect with younger demographics.

The DFB-Pokal finals are significant events in German football, attracting considerable attention. This project demonstrates a commitment to fostering the next generation of sports enthusiasts and commentators. It’s a bold move, and one that could redefine how fans experience these crucial matches.