Eva Olid's Departure Marks a New Era for Hearts Women

Eva Olid, the head coach of Hearts Women, will leave the club at the end of the current season, as confirmed on April 9, 2026. This decision comes by mutual agreement and marks the conclusion of her nearly five-year tenure, during which she significantly transformed the team. Olid informed her players of her decision following a crucial 1-0 victory against Glasgow City, a win that propelled Hearts to the top of the Scottish Women's Premier League (SWPL) standings.

Eva Olid to Depart Hearts Women at Season's End on April 9, 2026Eva Olid to Depart in Summer as Hearts Enter a New EraEva Olid to leave Hearts Women at the end of the seasonHearts head coach to exit club as SWPL boss informs players of decisionBBC News

When Olid took charge in July 2021, Hearts had just finished bottom of the league. The club avoided relegation due to an agreement for league expansion, finishing eighth in the 2021-22 season. Under her guidance, Hearts transitioned from amateur to semi-professional status for the 2022-23 season and achieved back-to-back fourth-place finishes. Olid's leadership has been pivotal in establishing Hearts as a competitive force in women's football, culminating in historic victories over traditional rivals Rangers, Celtic, and Hibernian.

Eva Olid to Depart Hearts Women at Season's End on April 9, 2026

Olid's tenure has been marked by several significant achievements. Notably, her team secured their first win against Rangers, which was viewed by Rangers' coach Jo Potter as a turning point in the league. The victory against Glasgow City completed a remarkable sequence of wins against the league's top teams. Additionally, Olid led Hearts to their first domestic cup final in 2024, where they faced Rangers.

Eva Olid to Depart Hearts Women at Season's End on April 9, 2026BBC NewsEva Olid to Depart in Summer as Hearts Enter a New EraEva Olid to leave Hearts Women at the end of the seasonHearts head coach to exit club as SWPL boss informs players of decision

Hearts Women released a statement acknowledging Olid's transformative role, highlighting her contribution to the club's journey from the second tier to the top flight. The club emphasized that her departure is part of a broader institutional shift as they embrace a new era. Olid's commitment to finishing the season strongly remains evident, as she aims to secure the title before her exit.

Eva Olid to Depart in Summer as Hearts Enter a New Era

While Olid's impact has been largely praised, some critics may question the timing of her departure amid a title race. The uncertainty surrounding a coaching change during a crucial phase of the season could pose challenges for the team as they strive for championship glory.

Eva Olid to Depart in Summer as Hearts Enter a New Era

Hearts currently lead the SWPL by one point over Rangers, with five matches remaining in the season. The upcoming fixtures will be critical as the team navigates the title race while preparing for a transition in leadership. Olid's departure adds complexity to the campaign, as the club must maintain momentum while planning for the future.

Eva Olid to Depart in Summer as Hearts Enter a New Era

• “couldn’t leave the club without beating City.” — Eva Olid, Head Coach, Hearts Women

Eva Olid to Depart in Summer as Hearts Enter a New Era

• “The same statement also highlighted the scale of her impact: she played “a huge role” in the women’s team’s journey from the second tier to the top flight, where Hearts now sit first.” — Hearts Women Statement

Eva Olid to Depart in Summer as Hearts Enter a New Era

• “Why Eva Olid’s exit matters now This is not a routine mid-table departure.” — Analysis of Olid's exit

Eva Olid to Depart in Summer as Hearts Enter a New Era

As the season progresses, the focus will be on whether Hearts can secure the title and how the club will manage the transition following Olid's departure.

Eva Olid to leave Hearts Women at the end of the season