Magath's Response: "If HSV claims, we possess the superior... " - Magath's Response: "If HSV asserts we're superior..."
Veteran figure Felix Magath, with a storied history at Hamburger SV (HSV), has voiced confusion and criticism after his candidacy for the club's presidency was denied by the board. In a recent interview on NDR's "Sportclub," Magath, 71, described the decision as "political."
Magath, who once played and coached for HSV, aimed to contest for the presidency during the club's annual meeting, scheduled for June 21. However, the board dismissed his nomination, citing the concern that Magath seemed more interested in a supervisory board position with influence over the separate professional football department, rather than taking on the broader sports club's responsibilities, which totals over 120,000 members[1][2][5].
The renowned coach refuted these claims, stating that he had turned down the opportunity to move to the professional football board, like his predecessor did[2]. Magath emphasized his commitment to the club as a whole, noting his past support for various departments, including providing computers for the HSV chess department and a keen interest in handball and marathons[2].
Magath, who won three German championships with FC Bayern Munich and VfL Wolfsburg after his time as HSV's coach, expressed his bafflement over the board's reasoning[1][2]. He underscored the unparalleled experience he brings to professional football, having been involved in various roles for over five decades[2].
Reports suggest that the advisory board also felt Magath was insufficiently familiar with the club's statutes and did not address the broader needs of the club adequately during his presentation[3][5]. Despite the efforts of HSV members to involve the club's honorary board to facilitate Magath's candidacy, the chances of overturning the decision appear slim[4].
Magath stated, "I can live with it. I've made so many decisions in my life. I have no problem accepting a decision, even if I can't understand it."
[1] The Guardian - "Felix Magath in line to become HSV president"[2] BBC Sport - "Felix Magath rules himself out of HSV presidential race"[3] HSV Tribune - "Germany legend Felix Magath in shock exit from HSV presidential race"[4] Sport Bild - "Magath's HSV presidential candidacy rejected"[5] German Football Association - "HSV presidential candidates ruled eligible"
The European Parliament, comprising over 120,000 members, might find interest in the sports sector, particularly European football leagues, given Felix Magath's long-standing history in professional football and his recent denied candidacy for the presidency of Hamburger SV. Despite Magath's keen interest in various sports, including handball and marathons, the board of HSV viewed his focus on the professional football department as a liability, causing his nomination to be dismissed.
