As part of this year’s European Days of Jewish Culture, the City of Munich is hosting a reading and discussion centered on the book „Juden auf dem Platz, Juden auf den Rängen: Jüdische Lebenswirklichkeiten und Antisemitismus im Fußball heute“ (Jews on the Pitch, Jews in the Stands: Jewish Experiences and Antisemitism in Football Today) by Ruben Gerczikow and Monty Ott.

Jewish people are an active part of German society, including within the world of football – both in the stands and on the pitch. In the wake of the massacre on Israeli civilians by the Islamist terrorist organization Hamas on October 7, 2023, football revealed both its darkest aspects and its capacity for solidarity. Stories such as those of the murdered Israeli hostages Hersh Goldberg-Polin and Inbar "Pink" Heyman have deeply affected many fan communities across German football. Through voices from both Germany and Israel, this book tells a story of friendship and solidarity, but also of threats and violence. It offers profound insight into the diverse experiences and challenges faced by Jewish people in football, illustrating that the sport is far more than just a game.

The two authors will read excerpts from the book, followed by a moderated discussion.