Heidenheim said on Wednesday that Frank Schmidt will leave the club at the end of the season after almost 20 years as head coach. The 52-year-old took over in September 2007 when Heidenheim were in the fourth tier and set a German professional football coaching record in 2023.
Decision to leave
Schmidt said in a statement: "It was truly impressive to see how much effort the club put into securing another contract extension with me. However, in recent weeks, I have come to the conclusion that it is time to make a decision. After nearly 20 years as head coach at FCH, I simply want to take a break this summer."
Length of service and record
Schmidt took over in September 2007 when Heidenheim were in the fourth tier. In 2023, he surpassed the previous record of 16 years for the longest-serving pro coach in Germany. Reuters described Schmidt as Germany's longest serving coach in professional football history.
Team achievements
Schmidt led Heidenheim into the Bundesliga in 2023 and to a Europa Conference League appearance a year later. Heidenheim were relegated last season and are currently sixth in the second-tier standings.
Before the season ends
Schmidt said: "One thing is certain: together, we at FCH have written a unique story in German professional football over many years but the final chapter has yet to be concluded."
