German national team players were subjected to an on-the-spot security inspection directly on the tarmac before departing for Texas ahead of their first World Cup match in Houston, in accordance with FIFA protocols.
At the Smith Reynolds Airport in Winston-Salem, players including Joshua Kimmich and Manuel Neuer underwent unusual security checks right beside the aircraft. The squad was en route to Houston for their opening World Cup fixture against Curaçao.
During the procedure, Jamal Musiala was screened with a handheld detector by security personnel next to the team’s blue aircraft, while luggage, including the players’ suitcases, was also inspected. Team member Florian Wirtz was among those required to open their bags for inspection.
The operation was carried out under official tournament travel rules set by FIFA, which manages team logistics and transport during the World Cup. According to the German Football Association (DFB), teams do not pass through standard airport terminals; instead, they are transported directly to the aircraft on the runway as part of the security and coordination protocol.
