BERLIN — As the World Cup progresses, national flags typically become symbols of unity and pride. However, in Germany, the story weaves a more complex tapestry.

There's no shortage of enthusiasm for the German team as they advance through Group E. Berlin bakeries are selling black, red, and gold cakes, while shops market tricolor accessories and fans don the national team's jerseys. Yet, the German flag itself is conspicuously underrepresented in the public sphere, a reflection of the nation's intricate post-World War II history with national symbols.

Post-Nazi Germany embraced "Verfassungspatriotismus," or constitutional patriotism, focusing on a commitment to democracy rather than overt national pride, traditionally left to the far right. Such sentiments persisted until the 2006 World Cup in Germany, which marked a significant shift. The event allowed Germans to express their national pride through the universal language of soccer, temporarily sidelining the dark historical associations tied to their flag.

However, the recent rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party complicates this newfound comfort. The AfD has reappropriated the flag and national pride, challenging Germany's postwar identity. This reclamation has stirred discomfort among more liberal circles, leading to cautious engagement with national symbols.

For instance, the Left Party's World Cup watch party explicitly advertised "No flags, no nationalism, no stress!" reflecting a broader unease. Similarly, Philipp Türmer from the Social Democrats expressed his reluctance to wave the flag due to its association with far-right groups.

Despite these challenges, German captain Joshua Kimmich remains hopeful. In a recent interview, he emphasized the diverse and inclusive nature of the German team, viewing it as a beacon for a new form of "positive patriotism" distinct from far-right ideologies.

As Germany navigates these turbulent waters, the World Cup serves as more than just a sporting event; it's a platform for redefining national identity in a modern, inclusive way. Thus, while the German flag might flutter less frequently, the spirit behind it is evolving, striving to reclaim its colors from a fraught past and wear them with a new sense of pride and purpose.