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Conflict over power within the Handball Bundesliga, with Kretzschmar and Siewert being excluded from participation

German football championship leader takes swift action, dismissing the sports director and coach. A replacement is already in place. Regrettably, this sports-related decision comes at a particularly unfavorable moment.

Power struggle intensifies in Handball Bundesliga as Kretzschmar and Siewert face exclusion
Power struggle intensifies in Handball Bundesliga as Kretzschmar and Siewert face exclusion

Conflict over power within the Handball Bundesliga, with Kretzschmar and Siewert being excluded from participation

Füchse Berlin Shake Up Management and Prepare for Title Race

The German handball world has been turned on its head with a double dismissal in the Bundesliga, as club boss Bob Hanning announces the departure of sports director Stefan Kretzschmar and coach Jaron Siewert. This comes as Füchse Berlin and Magdeburg emerge as the top teams, replacing Kiel and Flensburg.

Kretzschmar, who significantly developed the team into a top team during his tenure, has commented on his departure, stating that it hurts but creates clarity for all parties involved. He looks back on his time at the club with pride and thanks the team, coaching staff, fans, employees, and shareholders for the successful cooperation.

Kretzschmar played a crucial role in the move of several top players to Berlin, including handball legend Gidsel, Lasse Andersson, and Tobias Grondahl. Gidsel has emphasized that Kretzschmar's personality was a crucial factor in their decision to join the club.

With Kretzschmar's departure, Füchse Berlin will have to maintain the international top level of their squad without the star power of the handball legend. Newcomer Tobias Grondahl is among the top players who joined Berlin, influenced by Kretzschmar.

The new Danish double head coach and sports director of Füchse Berlin from July 1, 2026, is Nicolej Krickau. A 38-year-old Dane, Krickau has been appointed as the new coach and sports director, receiving a three-year contract. Krickau will make his debut on the sidelines this Saturday in the Bundesliga top game against SC Magdeburg and will be supported by Füchse veteran Paul Drux.

Drux will serve as a link between the team, coach, and management from July 1, 2026. Max Darj, the captain of Füchse Berlin, has stated that their job is to play handball in the top duel with Magdeburg. Gidsel has also stated that the team sees this game as an opportunity to set a statement that last year's championship was not just luck.

The title defender Füchse Berlin and vice champion SC Magdeburg are set to face each other in a close and important game. This game has national impact, as it's seen as a first indication in the title race. Max Darj and the team are determined to prove that their championship was not a fluke and that they are still a force to be reckoned with in the Bundesliga.

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