President of Germany to open Gamescom Congress and attend Gamescom 2026
Federal President of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier will make history by becoming the first German head of state to attend Gamescom. He will attend both the main event and open Gamescom Congress, the summit focused on the intersection of games, culture, politics, and technology.
Steinmeier will deliver a keynote address at the congress opening and participate in a panel discussion exploring the role of games in German democracy. Following the congress sessions, he will visit the main Gamescom exhibition floor to meet directly with game developers and community members, gaining firsthand insight into how games enrich culture and society.
The presidential attendance underscores the gaming industry’s profound significance to Germany’s economy and cultural identity. This marks a notable public recognition by Germany’s highest political office of gaming’s importance as both an economic engine and cultural force. The visit signals growing governmental acknowledgment of the gaming sector’s integral role in contemporary society and democratic discourse.