ÖFB probability: Will Bartosch solve the tensions in the bandage?

ÖFB probability: Will Bartosch solve the tensions in the bandage?

Wien, Österreich - The Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) faces decisive changes. With Wolfgang Bartosch, a new interim president took over the helm after Klaus Mitterdorfer resigned on November 21. The 66-year-old Bartosch, who was previously President of the Styrian State Association, was elected in a Presidium meeting in Vienna and succeeds Mitterdorfer. According to the information from Puls24, Bartosch was elected president, although the statutes originally provided for promotion from the circle of Vice Presidents. However, due to internal disagreements, it was necessary to change the statutes quickly to pave the way to Bartosch.

conflicts and challenges

The choice of Bartosch comes for the ÖFB in a turbulent time. Internal disputes and the dismissals of Managing Director Bernhard Neuhold and Secretary General Thomas Hollerer had caused turmoil. According to information from OE24, Bartosch was under pressure to restore trust within the Presidium and to smooth the waves. It will now be his task to stabilize the position of the association, especially since he will have to vote in Saudi Arabia in the coming week at the FIFA Congress on the allocation of the 2034 World Cup. The human rights situation in Saudi Arabia, which criticizes Amnesty International, could make Bartosch a difficult decision because he and Hollerer also belong to the FIFA disciplinary commission.