A government source has called Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s positive World Cup post a ‘regrettable communication error.’

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) faced backlash after a controversial post on X (formerly Twitter) regarding the national football team’s elimination from the World Cup. Despite Germany’s 3-4 loss to underdog Paraguay in a penalty shootout, Merz’s official account posted a positive message, stating, ‘Even though the elimination hurts: What a game. With your effort and team spirit, you’ve inspired our country. We are proud of you.’

Government sources later clarified that the post was a result of a ‘coordination error,’ calling the incident ‘very regrettable.’ The post drew widespread criticism, with opposition figures mocking Merz for being out of touch. FDP MEP Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann tweeted, ‘I don’t know what was worse—the game or this analysis.’ Merz responded to the criticism, stating, ‘In victory, we celebrate together. In defeat, we stand together. That’s what makes us strong.’