Rummenigge laughs off Ballon d’Or tribute mix-up involving his brother

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has reacted with humour after the Ballon d’Or ceremony mistakenly displayed a picture of his brother, Michael, while celebrating the former Bayern Munich striker’s place in the award’s history.

The error occurred during a video featuring some of the most celebrated winners of the Ballon d’Or. Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who won the award in 1980 and 1981, was represented by an image of Michael Rummenigge instead.

The mistake extended beyond the players’ similar names. The photograph shown was from a match between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid in 1987, by which time Karl-Heinz Rummenigge had already left the German club to join Inter Milan. Michael, rather than his older brother, was the Rummenigge playing for Bayern in the image.

The organisers apologised to the former Germany international, but he said the incident had not offended him and was not serious enough to warrant such a response.

Speaking to German newspaper Bild, Rummenigge said: “It just made me smile. At least the Ballon d’Or stayed in the family in the end.”

He added: “Of course, I accept the apology, but it really was not necessary. Everyone makes mistakes in life.”

Rummenigge’s relaxed reaction contrasted with the attention the incident received in Germany, where the mix-up quickly prompted widespread discussion on social media. The error attracted particular interest because it concerned one of the most distinguished players in Ballon d’Or history.

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge remains one of only a small number of players to have won the award twice, claiming the honour in consecutive years in 1980 and 1981. The ceremony’s tribute was intended to recognise that achievement, despite the image identifying the wrong member of the Rummenigge family.

Harry Kane, this year’s winner, has since become the first Bayern Munich player to receive the Ballon d’Or since Rummenigge’s success in 1981.