Germany being investigated by FIFA for breaking rule which 'makes no sense'

Germany are being investigated by FIFA for violating press conference rules prior to the game against Spain.

Manager Hansi Flick was in attendance for the pre-match presser ahead of the 1-1 draw at the Al Bayt Stadium but he came alone, with no player present.

The rule from FIFA is that a player joins the manager to speak to the media but Germany felt it was an unnecessary trip for one of their stars.

Press conferences for every nation take place in the IBC in Doha, the capital of Qatar. However, it would have been a ridiculous 210km round trip from Germany's training base, in Al Shamal.

As reported by Kicker, Germany suggested having the presser take place to their training camp or the media hotel but FIFA rejected that offer.

"I came alone because we didn’t want a player to spend three hours on the road to come," Flick explained the absence of a player.

“The 26 players are important and everyone has to focus on the game. I’m optimistic.”

Germany did have a player for the first press conference ahead of the shock 2-1 loss to Japan, with Joshua Kimmich accompanying Flick.

Image: Alamy

However, this was because Germany had stayed over in Doha the night before and a mammoth journey was not required.

FIFA's Disciplinary Commission are now investigating violations of Article 44 of the World Cup regulations, which is stated in the team handbook that every country receives.

Germany are still searching for their first victory in this year's World Cup and will look to achieve it against Costa Rica in their final Group E clash on Thursday.

Flick's next press conference is scheduled for Wednesday at the media centre but it remains to be seen whether he will have a player sat next to him.

Germany have already embroiled in a row with FIFA after they refused to allow captains of seven nations to wear the 'One Love' armband in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.

Image: Alamy

In response, Die Mannschaft staged a protest where the starting XI covered their mouths to reflect being silenced in the pre-match squad photo.