European Culture Prize for ex-footballer Michael Ballack

Ex-football star Michael Ballack receives the European Culture Prize. He is returning to the place where his career began. At the gala on Friday evening in Chemnitz, he will be honored for his successful career and his social commitment, the European Cultural Forum announced. Ballack stands for "origin without nostalgia, for success without arrogance and for social responsibility that does not arise from duty but from inner conviction", explained Bernhard Reeder, Chairman of the Board. The laudatory speech was held by former soccer official Reiner Calmund.

Ballack's soccer career began in Chemnitz, and he later played for FC Bayern Munich and Chelsea FC. Born in Görlitz, he was also captain of the German national soccer team for many years.

More awards for Kati Witt and Alphaville

In addition to Ballack, other personalities will be honored for their life's work and social commitment. Their names had already been announced in December. They include figure skater Katarina Witt, actor Matthias Schweighöfer and DJ Purple Disco Machine, as well as the band Alphaville, the Dresdner Kreuzchor and the Robert Schumann Philharmonic Orchestra Chemnitz.

The European Cultural Award is not endowed and honors personalities, initiatives, artists, politicians and institutions that have had a lasting impact on Europe and its people. The gala takes place in the Chemnitz Opera House. The city is this year's European Capital of Culture together with Nova Gorica.