The match, which Germany won 2-1, was the perfect opportunity for more of the country's elite athletes to show their backing for a bid that has the needs and aspirations of sportsmen and women at its heart.

Thomas Bach, President of the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) and Munich 2018 Shareholders Board chairman, commented: "I am thrilled that Germany's entire sporting community is behind the bid.

"Munich 2018 has an excellent partnership with the DFB (German Football Association).

"The celebration at the 2006 FIFA World Cup shaped the image of Germany very positively.

"We want to take that celebration to another level in 2018 with a 'Festival of Friendship' to inspire athletes and fans all over the world."

Katarina Witt, two-time Olympic champion and Munich 2018 chair, added: "We've travelled all over the world and we are always asked about the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.

"Everyone I speak to has fond memories of the warm welcome they received and the incredible atmosphere they experienced so it's great to know that German football is backing us, whether it's individual players and sports ambassadors like [DFB President] Theo Zwanziger and Franz Beckenbauer – who are both on our Board of Trustees – or organisations like the German Football Association, the German Football League and the national team.

"Munich 2018 is a bid by athletes, for athletes - and our stars appreciate that."

Germany's Philipp Lahm stressed the importance of putting together an athlete-focused bid.

The Bayern Munich defender said: "I am sure that Munich 2018 has developed the perfect concept, with great benefits to athletes visiting from all around the world.

"The Munich Olympic Park with the Olympic Stadium would be a perfect site for the Winter Games.

"The bid gets my vote!"

Thomas Müller echoed his teammate's optimism: "The Olympic and Paralympic Games are one of the biggest and most important sports events in the world - that is why I am backing Munich's bid and want to show my support as a Munich 2018 sports ambassador.

"With the mountains just on Munich's doorstep we could host a fantastic Winter Games.

"There'd be an unbelievable atmosphere for athletes and fans of every nationality."

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