Paul Bunne, a Munich-based influencer, finds himself at the center of a controversy after creating a promotional video for the city's Olympic referendum. The video, titled 'That's Why We Need the Olympics in Munich', was deleted following backlash over its funding origins. It was produced as part of a request from a social media agency that collaborates with influencers, purportedly to encourage local enthusiasm for the Olympic bid without direct payment involved.

This promotional effort was tied to a larger campaign by the Bavarian State Ministry of the Interior and the City of Munich, named 'OlympiJa', aimed at securing public support in a referendum set for late October 2025. However, concerns have arisen regarding the ethics of utilizing influencer marketing for public decision-making and the implications of such campaigns on voter autonomy. Bunne's experience has shed light on the intersection of social media, public opinion, and governmental strategies in gauging citizen support for major events.

The implications of this incident extend beyond Bunne himself, as it raises questions about the appropriate use of influencer partnerships in public affairs. The potential for penalties further complicates the dialogue surrounding influencer roles in civic matters, emphasizing the need for transparency in such collaborations. This case could set a precedent for how influencers engage in government-backed initiatives, and it underscores the need for clearer regulations regarding promotional content in the public interest.