Germany’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been disrupted by an unexpected concern after venomous snakes were spotted near the team’s training base in North Carolina.
The four-time world champions are based in Winston-Salem for the tournament, where a recent sighting of a copperhead snake has prompted caution among players and staff.
Kimmich admits players are on alert
Germany captain Joshua Kimmich revealed that the discovery has forced players to pay closer attention to their surroundings away from the pitch.
While teams are usually focused on tactical preparations and fitness, Kimmich admitted that concerns over the local wildlife have become an unusual talking point within the squad.
The concern increased after players were informed that copperheads are venomous and that any bite would require immediate medical treatment. Although rarely fatal, bites from the species can cause serious complications and often require hospital care.