Markus Söder (59) awarded 68 individuals with the Bavarian Order of Merit on Friday. Among those honored at the Munich Residenz was goalkeeper legend Oliver Kahn (57), who was recognized for his career at FC Bayern Munich as well as his social commitment. His foundation supports disadvantaged children and young people.
Film producer Oliver Berben (54) was also among the Prime Minister's award recipients. The son of Iris Berben (75) is, among other things, head of the production company Constantin Film. 'Our boss received the Bavarian Order of Merit from Markus Söder today. Congratulations! We are happy with and for you,' the company wrote on Instagram.
Award recipients from all fields
In addition to Kahn and Berben, this year's recipients included winter sports athlete Denise Herrmann-Wick, mountaineer Thomas Huber, and boxer Tina Rupprecht. Cabaret artists Willy Astor and Bruno Jonas, pop musician Stefan Zauner, singer of the band Münchener Freiheit, as well as politician Dorothee Bär (CSU) also received the Bavarian Order of Merit.
The Bavarian Prime Minister has been honoring people with the Bavarian Order of Merit since 1975 who have rendered outstanding service to the Free State of Bavaria. The number of living order recipients should not exceed 2,000. 'Welcome to Bavaria's exclusive club: With the Bavarian Order of Merit, we honor individuals who make Bavaria so strong, special, and lovable,' emphasized Markus Söder on his Instagram account alongside images with the award recipients.
Oliver Kahn is one of numerous soccer players who are allowed to wear the order. Last year alone, Söder presented it to three sports stars: Franz 'Bulle' Roth, Hermann Gerland, and Felix Magath. Thomas Müller, Philipp Lahm, and Manuel Neuer are also among the recipients.
