GermanyOwnership & classification
Founded: 1993
Ownership
Focus was launched as a weekly news magazine in January 1993 by Hubert Burda and Helmut Markwort; its online arm Focus Online grew into one of Germany's largest news portals. It is published by FOCUS Magazin Verlag GmbH, which sits within the Hubert Burda Media group based in Offenburg. Hubert Burda Media is wholly owned and controlled by the Burda family, with Hubert Burda as publisher and general partner.
Funding
Financed commercially through advertising, online traffic monetisation and subscriptions, as part of the family-owned Burda media business; no party or state subsidy.
Affiliation & stance
Focus has a moderately conservative, center-right editorial outlook but is privately owned by the Burda family with no party, church or government control over content. That private commercial ownership makes it INDEPENDENT, consistent with the site's center-right lean.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Right
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 412
71/100
Factual
65/100
Objective
670
Articles
670
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
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Recent coverage
Ukraine reports two dead after night attacks by Russia, with the death toll in Kiev rising to 30.
At least two people were killed and eight injured in Russian air strikes on the Sumy region and Kryvyj Rih in Ukraine during the night of Thursday to Friday, according to Ukrainian authorities. This follows a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv earlier in the week which killed at least 30 people and injured around 100 others. In response to the attacks, Ukraine conducted missile strikes on Belgorod in Russia, causing a fire at an energy facility and killing one woman, according to Russian media. The overnight strike on the city of Romny in the Sumy region hit a residential building, killing two women and injuring a man, reported regional administrator Oleh Hryhorov via Telegram. Another seven people were injured in a missile strike on Kryvyj Rih, according to military city administrator Oleksandr Vilkul. In Kyiv, teams discovered three more dead bodies during the night, bringing the total number of victims to 30, according to Reuters citing Ukrainian health authorities. Kyiv's military administrator Tymur Tkačenko stated that the attack injured 99 people. Moscow claimed the extensive attack was a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, including those carried
In the tropical Pacific, El Niño conditions have set in, researchers say.
The article reports that researchers from New Zealand’s Earth Sciences organization (ESNZ) have identified conditions consistent with the El Niño climate phenomenon in the tropical Pacific. They warn that impacts on New Zealand’s weather are likely to intensify over the coming months. The ESNZ joined other organizations in Australia, Japan, and the U.S. in confirming the development of El Niño, which is expected to reach strong intensity between July and September. The effects are projected to peak during the Southern Hemisphere summer, spanning late 2023 into early 2024. According to lead researcher Chris Brandolini, this El Niño event is at least comparable in strength to five of the strongest recorded El Niños in modern history. The article outlines regional rainfall expectations, noting potential below-average precipitation in some areas and above-normal levels in others. It also mentions possible temperature fluctuations and increased wind variability later in the year. Additionally, it notes two lower-probability risks: sudden stratospheric warming and the occurrence of a tropical cyclone outside the typical season, both historically linked to El Niño. Brandolini connects the
Parteitag der AfD: Ausnahmezustand in Erfurt erwartet
The article reports on the upcoming AfD party congress in Erfurt, Germany, which is expected to be marked by significant protests due to the party's controversial stance and recent racist remarks by some of its members. The AfD has faced criticism for its anti-immigration policies and alleged racism, with several politicians making derogatory comments about the German national football team, using terms historically associated with Nazi ideology. As a result, various civil society groups, including churches, unions, and human rights organizations, have organized peaceful demonstrations against the event. There are also calls for blockades, though authorities expect both peaceful protests and potential clashes. Thüringer Interior Minister Georg Maier has pledged to uphold the right to assembly for both the AfD and protesters. Meanwhile, internal party dynamics are highlighted, with the current leadership facing re-election and potential influence from more extreme factions within the party.
For three years I lived with Julian Nagelsmann and watched him lose everything.
The article titled '3 Jahre erlebte ich Julian Nagelsmann und sah, wie er alles verlor' (translated as '3 Years Living with Julian Nagelsmann and Watching Him Lose Everything') published by FOCUS online discusses the personal experiences of someone who lived with football coach Julian Nagelsmann over three years and observed his decline. The piece appears to focus on Nagelsmann’s career trajectory, particularly his struggles at Bayern Munich, including controversies surrounding player behavior and team performance. It highlights the emotional and professional challenges he faced during this period. While the article does not provide specific details beyond the general narrative, it suggests a critical perspective on Nagelsmann’s tenure and the pressures he encountered.
Early World Cup exit for Germany: What went wrong?
Germany's football national team suffered an early exit from the World Cup by losing 3:4 to Paraguay in a penalty shootout during the round of 16. This marks the third consecutive failure to advance beyond the group stage at a World Cup, having previously been eliminated in the group phase in 2018 and 2022. The match ended 1:1 after extra time, with Germany's players failing to convert their penalties, including Kai Havertz, Nick Woltemade, and Jonathan Tah. Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer made strong saves but could not prevent the defeat. Since winning the World Cup in 2014, Germany has not won any knockout game at a World Cup. This was the first loss in a World Cup penalty shootout for the German team, which had previously won all four such encounters. Several key players underperformed, including captain Joshua Kimmich, Florian Wirtz, and Jamal Musiala, who struggled due to injury and poor form. Defensive issues and lack of attacking momentum were also significant factors. Injuries to players like Serge Gnabry and Lennart Karl further weakened the squad. Coach Julian Nagelsmann faced criticism for his tactical decisions, including retaining Kimmich as a right-back despite his struggles
Putin recognizes the oil map for the first time
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged for the first time that Russia is building 'some oil reserves' during a meeting focused on energy issues. He emphasized the need to strengthen domestic oil production and increase output. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continued their attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, detonating an oil purification plant in the southern Krasnodar region, which produces around four million tons of crude oil annually. The Krasnodar region is one of Russia's largest oil-producing areas located near the Black Sea. On Tuesday, Ukrainian forces launched large-scale air strikes on Sevastopol, the largest city on Crimea, including attacks on oil facilities. In response, Russia, which annexed Crimea in 2014, has restricted fuel sales to the public to counteract the energy shortages. According to reports, these attacks have had no impact on the front line. During an interview with a Russian state television station, Putin described the Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure as an attempt to destabilize Russian society. He stated that Ukraine's goal was to halt the deployment of Russian military units to improve their position in arms control talks.
Julian Nagelsmann still hasn't figured out what's bothering people about him.
The article discusses Julian Nagelsmann, a German football coach, and his apparent lack of understanding regarding what fans find objectionable about him. The piece highlights public sentiment toward Nagelsmann, suggesting there is some level of discontent among supporters, though the specific reasons are not detailed. It implies that Nagelsmann has not fully grasped the nature of these criticisms, which could relate to his coaching style, personality, or other factors. The focus is on the disconnect between Nagelsmann’s perspective and that of his audience.
A plague of flies on "My Ship 6" is forcing guests below deck
The article reports on a significant issue aboard the cruise ship 'Mein Schiff 6', where a severe fly infestation has forced guests to stay below deck. The situation appears to be causing discomfort and disruption for passengers, leading to concerns about hygiene and living conditions onboard. While the focus is on the immediate problem faced by travelers, there is no detailed information provided on the cause of the infestation, the measures being taken to address it, or any official statements from the cruise line regarding the matter. The report seems to highlight the impact on guest experience rather than delving into broader implications or responses from authorities.
Military expert warns of Russian 'wave of destruction'
A military expert has warned of a potential 'destruction wave' initiated by Russia, suggesting a significant escalation in Russian military actions. The warning comes amid ongoing tensions and conflicts involving Russia, likely referring to current geopolitical situations such as those in Ukraine or other regions where Russia has been involved in military operations. The expert's statement highlights concerns over increased aggression or strategic moves by Russia that could lead to widespread damage or conflict. This warning underscores the growing anxieties surrounding Russia's military posture and its possible implications for regional stability.
"They're everywhere": terminally ill mother doesn't dare go out because of oak procession spinners
The article discusses a mother who suffers from a severe illness and has become afraid to go outside due to the presence of oak processionary caterpillars. These caterpillars release toxic hairs that can cause skin irritation and other health issues, making outdoor activities dangerous for vulnerable individuals. The mother’s condition highlights the growing concern over environmental hazards affecting public health, particularly for those already in poor health. The situation reflects broader challenges related to balancing ecological concerns with human safety and quality of life.
Henrik (46) earns € 6611 as an airport veterinarian
The article reports on Henrik, a 46-year-old individual working as a veterinarian at an airport, who earns a monthly salary of 6,611 euros. The piece highlights his profession and income, focusing on the unique nature of his role in providing veterinary care at a flight facility. There is no additional context provided regarding his work conditions, career background, or any broader implications of his employment. The article appears to be a straightforward informational piece without commentary or opinion.
Debate on the firewall: the AfD asks no one these questions
The article discusses two contrasting situations involving the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). The first involves a friendly interaction between AfD candidate Ulrich Siegmund and CDU politician Guido Heuer during a public event in Halberstadt, where they appear to have a cordial relationship despite their political differences. This moment sparked controversy, with some criticizing such interactions during the election campaign. Heuer later had to publicly reaffirm his commitment to the 'Unvereinbarkeitsbeschluss' (incompatibility decision), which prohibits cooperation with the AfD. The second situation involves Hans-Thomas Tillschneider, a deputy leader of the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt, who stated in a podcast that the AfD would not consider forming a coalition with the CDU. However, this statement received no significant reaction, unlike similar actions by CDU politicians, which face scrutiny. The article highlights that while the AfD appears divided on the issue of cooperating with the CDU, the public does not hold them accountable in the same way as the CDU.
Drone on its way to Russia's largest oil refinery spotted 2,500 kilometers from the border
An unmanned drone was spotted en route to Russia's largest oil refinery, located approximately 2,500 kilometers from the border. The sighting raises questions about potential military or industrial activity, though no further details were provided. The report highlights concerns over surveillance or logistical movements near strategic infrastructure. The article does not specify the origin of the drone or any official confirmation of its purpose.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
Sick leave from day one: General practitioners say reform plan 'absolutely catastrophic'
Sudden crash at Lanz: presenter folds AfD politicians together
Jetzt im Livestream +++ AfD erreicht in Thüringen höchsten jemals für sie gemessenen Wert - Video
Hanning über DFB: Weltklasse? Höchstens bei der Hotelwahl. Sonst nur Gucci, Gucci, Cappuccino
Klinsmann settled with DFB-Elf: devastating and embarrassing
SPD wants to increase statutory holiday entitlement by one day
Söder calls for cuts in citizens' money and a law on payment cards
With radical Israeli proposals, the New Left demonstrates its power at the party congress in Potsdam
