Long-serving FC Bayern captain Philipp Lahm awarded Order of Merit

Ahead of German Unity Day (3 October), Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier honoured 25 outstanding personalities for their contribution to social cohesion. Among them: Philipp Lahm, one of FC Bayern’s most successful ever players. As the "Mr Fairplay" of German football, the now 41-year-old was recognised today with the Order of Merit.

The former world-class full-back stood for respect, fairness and responsibility during his career. The long-serving FCB captain’s impact on and off the pitch makes him a role model to many to this day – not just football fans.

Lahm will forever be remembered as the face of a golden generation at Bayern. As captain, he led the side to the Champions League title in 2013, made a total of 517 competitive appearances for the German record champions, won eight Bundesliga titles, six DFB Cups, the German Supercup three times and the FIFA Club World Cup once. He was also captain of the Germany team that won the World Cup in 2014. Lahm embodied consistency and reliability, and in 15 years as a Bayern player he only received 38 yellow cards – and was never sent off. A statistic that impressively underscores his remarkable sense of fair play and sportsmanship. The Order of Merit from the Federal President is recognition of Lahm’s commitment.