Heidenheim's chairman strongly supports head coach Schmidt: The team's bottom ranking is by no means his fault.

2026-02-19 09:42

Heidenheim chairman Holger Sanwald said on Wednesday that Frank Schmidt's position as manager remains secure.

The 22nd round of the 2025/26 Bundesliga season concluded last week, with Heidenheim suffering a 0-1 defeat to Augsburg, marking their fourth consecutive loss. They currently sit at the bottom of the table with 13 points (3 wins, 4 draws, 15 losses), 6 points away from safety.

Despite facing relegation, Heidenheim's management has shown absolute confidence in 52-year-old head coach Schmidt. When asked by the German Press Agency (DPA) whether Schmidt might stay on, Sanwald replied decisively: "Of course, if he wants to. Frank's contract with us will last until June 30, 2027. We are very grateful for his continued dedication."

"Having gone through all the trials and tribulations this season, he has become a better coach. Our bottom ranking is by no means his fault," Sanwald concluded.

Schmidt played for Heidenheim for four years during his playing career, and officially began his coaching career at the same club in September 2007. He has now remained in the managerial position at Heidenheim for 18 years, making him the longest-serving coach in German professional football.

According to Transfermarkt data, Schmidt has managed a total of 733 club matches to date, with 335 wins, 171 draws, and 227 losses. His most notable achievements are undoubtedly leading Heidenheim to their first-ever promotion to the Bundesliga in the 2022/23 season and securing a place in the European Championship in the 2023/24 season.

Image source: Internet/Bundesliga official website