Allegations of Misconduct Lead to Stefan Kuntz's Departure from HSV

Stefan Kuntz, the former sporting director of Hamburger SV (HSV), has been terminated from his position following serious allegations of misconduct, including verbal sexual harassment from female employees. The HSV supervisory board acted swiftly after credible allegations were brought to their attention in December 2025, leading to Kuntz's departure effective December 31, 2025.

"Serious misconduct": HSV speak out on the Kuntz case! | OneFootballBundesliga side Hamburg make statement on allegations against ex-director Stefan KuntzStatement from the HSV supervisory board

The allegations against Kuntz emerged from a report by the tabloid BILD, which detailed accusations from several female HSV employees. In response, Kuntz publicly denied the allegations on social media, labeling them as false and part of a "smear campaign." He stated, “I categorically reject these allegations! For the sake of my family and all those close to me, I have asked my lawyers to take action against these FALSE accusations and prejudgments.” Kuntz has also filed charges for stalking against unknown individuals with the Hamburg public prosecutor’s office.

"Serious misconduct": HSV speak out on the Kuntz case! | OneFootballBundesliga side Hamburg make statement on allegations against ex-director Stefan KuntzStatement from the HSV supervisory board

In light of the allegations, the HSV supervisory board initiated an investigation with the assistance of external legal counsel. They concluded that the claims were credible, prompting the decision to terminate Kuntz's cooperation with the club. The board emphasized that the protection of the personal rights of those affected was their top priority throughout the process. They stated, “HSV does not tolerate any misconduct of the kind in question, regardless of the hierarchical level involved.”

Statement from the HSV supervisory boardBundesliga side Hamburg make statement on allegations against ex-director Stefan Kuntz"Serious misconduct": HSV speak out on the Kuntz case! | OneFootball

Kuntz has characterized the situation as a defamation campaign against him, asserting that the allegations are unfounded. However, the HSV supervisory board has firmly rejected this notion, stating that the claims of a smear campaign are “clearly incorrect and misleading.” They reiterated their commitment to values of tolerance and respect, opposing any form of discrimination.

"Serious misconduct": HSV speak out on the Kuntz case! | OneFootball

The HSV supervisory board released a statement detailing their actions and the rationale behind Kuntz's termination. They noted that Kuntz was given multiple opportunities to present his side but chose not to engage with the supervisory board. The board's statement underscored their commitment to acting decisively in response to credible allegations of misconduct.

Statement from the HSV supervisory board

As the situation develops, Kuntz's legal actions against the allegations and the ongoing discourse surrounding workplace conduct in sports organizations will likely continue to unfold. The HSV supervisory board remains focused on ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all employees.

"Serious misconduct": HSV speak out on the Kuntz case! | OneFootball

• “I categorically reject these allegations! For the sake of my family and all those close to me, I have asked my lawyers (Schertz Bergmann law firm) to take action against these FALSE accusations and prejudgments,” — Stefan Kuntz, Former Sporting Director

"Serious misconduct": HSV speak out on the Kuntz case! | OneFootball

• “HSV does not tolerate misconduct of the nature described, regardless of the level of hierarchy involved.” — HSV Supervisory Board Statement

Statement from the HSV supervisory board

• “the allegations of a ‘smear campaign’ against Stefan Kuntz are clearly incorrect and misleading.” — HSV Supervisory Board Statement

"Serious misconduct": HSV speak out on the Kuntz case! | OneFootball