Switzerland have terminated the contract of their national team coach Pia Sundhage with immediate effect.
The deal was due to expire next month regardless, but the Swedish coach was told that it would now end straightaway so that the new head coach can work in camp with the team in the international camp at the end of November.
“Pia Sundhage took over the team in 2024 during a difficult period and led them through an unforgettable European Championship in our country. Together with the players and staff, she laid the foundation for a promising future in Swiss women’s football. We thank Pia and her coaching staff and wish them all the best for the future,” said SFV president Peter Knäbel in a statement translated by SheKicks.net.
Pia Sundhage: I am surprised by the decision
Sundhage led the team to the quarter-finals of their home Women’s Euros over the summer, and for her part, expressed shock at the decision in her own statement.
“It has been a great pleasure and an honour to accompany this Swiss national team over the past two years. As a team, we have learned a great deal, grown together, and written an unforgettable chapter in the history of Swiss women’s football with the home European Championship.
“I would have loved to continue this journey. I am surprised by the Swiss Football Association’s decision, but I respect it. I wish the team and Swiss football all the best – and that the passion we felt this summer continues.”
The SFV have announced that they will be making some structural changes for its women’s football set-up, with Johan Djourou assuming the technical leadership role within a women’s football directorate, headed by Marion Daube.
“The decision and the changes are based on the strategy and development process,” added Daube. “It is time to set new impulses with adapted structures and to consistently implement the 2026-2030 strategy with a clear focus on youth and talent development and an adapted playing philosophy. The new national coach will also play a central role in the area of youth development.”
Sundhage’s career so far
Pia Sundhage was a top international footballer herself, winning the inaugural Women’s Euros with Sweden in 1984, and retiring as her nation’s top scorer.
As a coach, she led the USA to two Olympic gold medals as well as a second-place finish at the 2011 Women’s World Cup.
She has also coached Sweden and Brazil at international level.
