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Offsides from the Fringe

June 8, 2006

It's not been all seriousness at the World Cup. Germany has seen some pretty weird things related to the tournament over the past year. DW-WORLD.DE presents some of the best.

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Image: picture-alliance/dpa
Soccer: It's a funny ol' game. Take a break from the intensity of the action and enjoy the offbeat and quirky side of the World Cup with this special selection of Fringe stories.
Skip next section Reports & Analysis

Reports & Analysis

Beate Uhse Loses its World Cup Buzz

Bad news for German soccer fans: Olli K. and Michael B. will not be bringing pleasure to supporters during the World Cup. And as for England, their fans can forget about any buzzing performances from a certain David B.
May 25, 2006

Germany's Imperial Frequent Flyer

Is German soccer legend Franz Beckenbauer really a human being? Or is he merely a science fiction invention? He does seem capable of beaming himself to different galaxies at the speed of light.
June 21, 2006

World Cup Host City Residents Told to Behave

Residents in the German city of Cologne have received a letter telling them that they should not display unlicensed products during the World Cup. The city authorities have denied any involvement.
June 2, 2006

Mystery of the Ages: Who Invented Soccer?

Where is the birthplace of The Beautiful Game? It's a hot topic for debate and a Hamburg museum is trying to get to the bottom of it.
June 7, 2006

Telekom Goes Ball Crazy in Berlin

What's the best way to celebrate the fact that your country is hosting the World Cup? Deutsche Telekom believes it's turning one of Berlin's iconic landmarks into a big pink football.
November 1, 2005

This Weird, Wacky, Wonderful World Cup

It's been said that soccer is more than just a sport. It's about passion, excitement and participation. It's also about going a bit crazy. Here DW-WORLD.DE offers five of the most bizarre aspects of the 2006 World Cup.
June 8, 2006

Brazilian Protestors Bare All Against Soccer's Ubiquity

Brazilians tend to forget their socio-political problems during the World Cup. Three protestors made a statement to that effect by getting naked during a game. As if to emphasize their point, none of the crowd noticed.
June 29, 2006

Could Goleo's Musical Career Spell the End For Pille?

He first appeared without a voice...or trousers...but now, as his career takes another stratospheric upswing, Goleo releases a solo hit single. But what will happen to Pille now the World Cup lion has found his roar?
February 8, 2006

No More Spit And Polish: Getting Rich With German Gum

Who says chewed-up bubble gum is a nuisance? It's worth hundreds if coming from the right mouth -- such as one belonging to a certain German goalkeeper.
June 15, 2006

Germany's Mascots Play the Shame Game

Is there a conspiracy in Germany to sabotage the World Cup? Anyone taking an interest in the official mascots may think so. The latest, an eagle to front the national team, is already stirring embarrassment.
December 22, 2005

Cashing in on Klinsi

What should Germany's new darling Jürgen Klinsmann do once the World Cup is over? Hold a garage sale as soon as possible. It could make him millions, it seems.
July 8, 2006

Dear God, Please Help Us Crush the Other Team

Does God care about the score? Two Berlin churches are planning 15-minute church services during half-time in the World Cup games.
June 6, 2006
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