ZDF documentary shines light on sexual abuse allegations in German football

ZDF aired a documentary titled “Break the Silence” in which former professional and sports presenter Jonas Hummels explores sexual abuse within German football. Prompted by a counselor, referred to as N., who allegedly assaulted boys at his youth club in Unterhaching near Munich, Hummels gathered testimonies from former teammates Tim and Yanis and more than 50 other individuals, reviewing over 200 alleged incidents. The film asks whether these are isolated events or indicative of a broader problem that has been hidden.

Hummels also confronts the vice-president of the German Football Association, questioning possible protection of perpetrators. While the interview style sometimes feels awkward, the documentary brings new voices forward, many speaking publicly for the first time. The program runs 45 minutes and aims to spark discussion about accountability in the sport.