When the kick-off sounds in Waldbreitbach on May 8, 2026 at 7 p.m., the Lotto-Elf will be about much more than just a soccer match: the traditional selection of former professional footballers and well-known personalities will once again be on the road in Rhineland-Palatinate, playing for the benefit of social initiatives, in this case for the "VOR-TOUR der Hoffnung". On Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 4 p.m., the upcoming match will be presented at a press conference with team manager Edgar Schmitt at Waldbreitbach town hall.
Since 1999, the Lotto Eleven's charity matches have already raised more than 4.6 million euros for charitable causes. The team will be coached by Hans-Peter Briegel (FCK legend, European champion, two-time World Cup runner-up). For him, the social purpose is paramount: "It's always something special to support people who need help through soccer. The Lotto-Elf combines sport, community and responsibility. For many years, this project has shown how much can be achieved together - and how help can arrive." Edgar Schmitt ("Euro-Eddy") is once again involved as team manager. He coordinates the processes and is also the contact person for clubs and organizers who would like to hold a charity match with the Lotto Eleven.
Many familiar faces from the Bundesliga and international soccer will once again be on the pitch in 2026. Stephan Engels (1. FC Köln) and Dariusz Wosz (VfL Bochum) will lead the team as captains. The squad also includes Erik Durm (2014 World Cup winner), David Odonkor (2006 World Cup bronze medalist) and the two European champions Manfred Kaltz (1980) and Thomas Helmer (1996). The selection is complemented by other former Bundesliga players such as Christof Babatz, Dirk Schuster, Matthias Scherz, Benjamin Auer, Philipp Wollscheid and Marco Reich.
The match days are designed as family and club events: In addition to the match, there are autographs, photos, talks with the players and a raffle with high-quality prizes. A taster session is also offered each time, as well as a cheerleading course for girls.
