Pulling the Plug: Wolf and Sauren Stepping Down from 1. FC Köln after 25 Years
Bosses Surrender or Capitulate
In a surprise move, 1. FC Köln's President Werner Wolf and Vice-President Eckhard Sauren have decided not to seek re-election at the upcoming annual general meeting in September.
Jonas Reihl reports the news from Cologne.
In Essence:
- Wolf and Sauren call it quits after 25 years.
- Carsten Wettich will run for re-election.
- Decision not to seek re-election was carefully considered.
- Wolf promises to remain a devoted supporter after departure.
- Trio announced joint withdrawal in April.
Podcast Announcement
Wolf and Sauren made this announcement during the latest episode of the "FC Podcast" on "Radio Cologne." Carsten Wettich, who forms the Billy Goat's leading trio alongside the two departing officials, will stand for re-election but with a new team.
"Of course, we have mulled over this decision thoroughly, and it's bittersweet to say goodbye," says Sauren, acknowledging his impending departure. However, he remains resolved, "I believe this is the right moment to make the news public."
Change in the Ranks: Kwasniok to Take Over?
Despite his departure, Wolf assures that he will always be a devoted fan and linked to the club - a partnership that spans nearly a quarter-century.
The Trinity Steps Down Jointly
The trio hinted at their joint withdrawal as early as April in a members' letter.
Although they hadn't specified whether they'd stand for re-election independently, they stated, "After intensive deliberations and discussions, we have concluded [...] not to run for another term as the current board team."
Currently, no clear successor to Wolf has been announced. The club's focus has been on recent appointments like Thomas Kessler becoming Sporting Director and Philipp Liesenfeld taking charge as Managing Director for Marketing and Sales. As such, any progress regarding a change in presidency has yet to be disclosed to the public.
What's Next?
Nonetheless, change is on the horizon for 1. FC Köln as we bid farewell to two influential figures in the club's history. Stay tuned for further developments and the election of the new executive team.
Featured Image: Image montage: Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa,
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"In the latest episode of the 'FC Podcast' on 'Radio Cologne', it was announced that Wolf and Sauren, both key figures in the European football leagues, made their decision to step down after 25 years with 1. FC Köln during the discussion."
"Despite the upcoming election, no clear successor for Wolf has been announced yet, as the club focuses on recent appointments like Thomas Kessler as Sporting Director and Philipp Liesenfeld as Managing Director for Marketing and Sales."
