Matze Knop

Matze Knop, born Matthias Knop on 11 November 1974 in Lippstadt, North Rhine-Westphalia, is a German comedian, impressionist, singer, actor, and television presenter. He is considered one of Germany's leading parody artists and is especially well known for his impressions of football personalities. His best-known character is a parody of former German football captain Lothar Matthaeus, which became a defining element of his comedy career. Knop is a passionate amateur footballer himself, having played as a defender since the age of six for Borussia Lippstadt and later for various other clubs. He combines his deep knowledge of football with sharp observational humor to create comedy that resonates with German sports fans.

Matze Knop's breakthrough came with his impressions of Lothar Matthaeus, the World Cup-winning German football captain whose distinctive speech patterns Knop transformed into a recurring comedy character. His parody repertoire expanded over the years to include managers and coaches such as Juergen Klopp, Pep Guardiola, Reiner Calmund, music producer Dieter Bohlen, and many other sports and entertainment figures. Many of the celebrities Knop parodies have publicly endorsed his impressions, and he has worked with German broadcasters such as RTL and DSF on football-themed comedy shows. He has released several comedy songs and music parodies tied to major football tournaments, including Bundesliga and World Cup-themed tracks. Knop also acts in television series and films, including a recurring role in the German crime drama Notruf Hafenkante. His shows blend stand-up, sketch, character comedy, and live music, which has helped him build a loyal touring audience across Germany. His 2026 tour Spitzenreiter brings his latest material to venues across the country.

Matze Knop is on tour in 2026 with his program Spitzenreiter, performing in cities including Krefeld, Osnabrueck, Erfurt, Achim, Buchholz, Wernigerode, Bad Elster, Stuttgart, Neunkirchen, and Rheine. Performances run from May 2026 through November 2026, with ticket prices typically starting around 28 to 32 euros. The Spitzenreiter show continues his combination of football parodies, character comedy, and live entertainment. Tickets and full tour dates are available at matzeknop.de and through Eventim, Reservix, and ADticket.