Ex-Bundesliga and Leeds goalkeeper enters politics as he prepares for local election

Former Bundesliga goalkeeper Felix Wiedwald is running as a candidate for the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in the upcoming local election. The 36-year-old is eagerly awaiting the election that will take place on September 13th, as he’ll be part of the team led by mayoral candidate Björn Symank.

Wiedwald is currently working as a scout at Werder Bremen, for whom he played 65 games. The former Germany U20 international also guarded the nets of Eintracht Frankfurt and Leeds United during his playing career.

“There are so many complaining, but few are involved in politics,” said Wiedwald regarding his decision to enter politics. “I immediately took the full program. I registered with the CDU city association and informed them that I would like to participate,” added the Thedinghausen native in an interview with Kreiszeitung (via DeichStube).

Wiedwald also addressed his full-time job as a scout in the interview. “I am a permanent scout in the squad planning at Werder Bremen. This is a full-time job. But I, like the many other politicians, want to take the time to do it.”

Wiedwald retired from professional football at the age of 32. He took sport management courses and invested in real estate. His grandfather Erhard Wiedwald helped him on his way into entering politics.

"I speak things honestly, clearly and directly. That’s my way, and it should stay that way.” added Weidwald as he believes Symank will be the right person to lead Verden.

“I’m glad we have Felix (Wiedwald) on board. He has contributed to the team from the first minute with ideas. Through his special background, he naturally brings completely new impressions. The fact that he was also immediately ready to participate as a council candidate deserves respect. More and more people complain, but hardly anyone participates. Our democracy thrives on participation.” the mayoral candidate Symank praised the former shot-stopper.