Stefan Kuntz, 63, dismissed by Hamburg amid ‘inappropriate physical contact’ claims | OneFootball

Stefan Kuntz has been removed from Hamburg’s board after allegations of inappropriate physical contact, with the club later deeming the claims credible. The 63-year-old former Euro 96 winner denies wrongdoing.

He initially left his role as sporting director on 2 January, with Hamburg citing family reasons. Bild reported staff allegations emerged soon after.

In a second statement, the supervisory board was alerted in December 2025, external lawyers were engaged, and after review the club sought the quickest separation, having found the accusations credible.

Kuntz declined to take part in the investigation and protecting those involved remained the priority in the process. The club also rejected suggestions of a smear campaign. A female employee reportedly alleged inappropriate physical contact and several colleagues described him as overly tactile.

Kuntz has denied all the accusations. In an Instagram post he said the claims hit him hard, he strongly rejects them and has instructed his lawyers at Kanzlei Schertz Bergmann to act.

He became Hamburg sporting director in 2024. The former striker previously managed the Türkiye national team and Germany Under-21s, and was part of Germany’s Euro 96-winning side.

Source: Sunderland Echo