Major Management Changes Shake Up Hannover 96 and Borussia Dortmund in March 2026

Two of Germany's prominent football clubs, Hannover 96 and Borussia Dortmund, have undergone unexpected leadership changes this March, altering the landscape of their sports management.

Hannover 96 announced the departure of their Sportgeschäftsführer Jörg Schmadtke after just 81 days in the role, effective March 31, 2026. Schmadtke, who had returned to the club in January 2026 with a contract intended to last until 2029, left on amicable terms with no reasons provided by the club. This marks his second tenure with Hannover 96, where he previously helped secure a fourth-place Bundesliga finish and Europa League qualification in the 2010/2011 season. The club's remaining leadership, including Geschäftsführer Henning Bindzus and Sportdirektor Ralf Becker, will temporarily handle Schmadtke's responsibilities. Hannover 96 is currently positioned fifth in the 2. Liga under coach Christian Titz, just two points behind the direct promotion spots to the Bundesliga after a recent 1-0 win in the Niedersachsenderby against Eintracht Braunschweig.

Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund's Sportdirektor Sebastian Kehl has also stepped down from his role. Kehl’s departure, agreed mutually with the club’s management, was announced shortly following Borussia Dortmund’s 3-2 victory over Hamburger SV. Kehl had been associated with Dortmund since 2018 and served as Sportdirektor from 2022. Despite no official explanation, criticism had mounted regarding his squad planning. Lars Ricken, Dortmund’s sports managing director, revealed that after open discussions among Kehl, managing director Carsten Cramer, and himself, they collectively concluded that a change was necessary. Kehl’s contract was terminated immediately to facilitate this transition.

These rapid leadership changes at two major German football clubs highlight a period of strategic reevaluation and transition. Hannover 96’s abrupt end to Schmadtke’s journey, despite a promising start aimed at Bundesliga promotion, and Dortmund’s decisive shift in managing director spotlight a critical juncture for both clubs moving forward.