Former footballer Jonas Hummels warns of widespread abuse in youth soccer

Jonas Hummels, who played professionally before retiring, participated in a TV documentary that examined sexual abuse within German youth football. The investigation revealed dozens of ongoing criminal cases and identified hundreds of individuals who claim to have been harmed. Hummels compared the scale of the scandal to the historic abuse crisis in the Catholic Church, suggesting a similarly deep-rooted problem.

He urged clubs, governing bodies, and the public to take decisive action to safeguard children and address the systemic failures. The findings point to a need for comprehensive reforms and support for survivors. Hummels emphasized that the sport must confront this dark chapter openly and responsibly.