Tatjana Haenni Leads RB Leipzig to Champions League Qualification in Transitional Season

Tatjana Haenni, who assumed the role of CEO at RB Leipzig on January 1, 2026, has navigated a season of significant transition culminating in the club's qualification for the UEFA Champions League. This achievement marks a key milestone for the team both in sporting and financial terms. Haenni, bringing extensive international experience as a former player and administrator, expressed satisfaction with her integration into Leipzig and the club's progress.

The club faced challenges earlier in the season but secured their Champions League spot recently against St. Pauli, ensuring a minimum of four home games that will bolster the club's economic stability and regional engagement. Haenni emphasized the importance of Champions League participation, noting it as "the pinnacle of competition" crucial for retaining players and supporting the club financially.

While Haenni does not directly handle squad planning, she maintains close communication with director Marcel Schäfer and head coach Ole Werner, expressing contentment with their work. She reflected on her first six months as CEO as a period of managed change and looks forward to building on this success.

In addition to the men's team success, Haenni remains committed to advancing the women's team at RB Leipzig. Despite the women's recent 1:3 home loss to Bayer Leverkusen—where Leipzig initially led before conceding three goals—the women's squad is considered young with promising potential, and Haenni voiced support for its growth within the Bundesliga.

RB Leipzig's dual focus on maintaining Champions League performance and fostering women's football reflects Haenni's comprehensive vision for the club's future in German football.