German GP: No World Cup on Rosberg’s Helmet

The 2014 FIFA World Cup ended last Sunday with Germany’s team victory over Argentina, thanks to a goal by Mario Götze during extra time. A fervent supporter of the Mannschaft, Nico Rosberg has never hesitated to show his support for the team of the country whose nationality he chose, even though his father was Finnish.

To pay tribute to the team led by Joachim Löw, the leader of the F1 World Championship had decided to adorn his helmet with decorations featuring gold accents, the black-red-gold German flag, the four stars symbolizing Germany’s various titles, and… the World Cup trophy, introduced in 1974 to replace the Jules Rimet trophy, which had been permanently won by Brazil following their three victories in 1958, 1962, and 1970.

This was without accounting for the intervention of FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association), the holder of the commercial rights to the cup, which did not authorize its reproduction on Rosberg’s helmet. He reacted on Twitter: « What a shame, I would have loved to display the trophy as a tribute to the guys, but obviously, I respect the legal situation. »

During Thursday’s press conference in Hockenheim, he spoke again: « When you think about it, it’s incredible that even a trophy has its own brand or whatever […] It was a surprise but, of course, I fully understand. It’s a shame because it was cool, with the trophy on top. Anyway, I’ve replaced it with a big star now, and no one can take it. The star is ours! »

He therefore took the opportunity to present the final version, which highlights the latest star conquered by the Germans.