Swiss national team ends working relationship with Pia Sundgage

Pia Sundhage’s contract as head coach of the Switzerland women’s national football team will not be renewed beyond December, ending her tenure.

• The decision comes despite Switzerland’s historic achievement of reaching the quarter-finals of UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 under her leadership — their best performance at a major tournament.
• Sundhage said she was surprised by the federation’s decision and stated she “would have loved to continue this journey.”
• A condition Sundhage had for extension was the appointment of a full-time assistant, which appears to have been a sticking point in negotiations.
• The Swiss Football Association confirmed she will receive thanks for leading a memorable tournament on home soil, and announced structural changes in their women’s-football setup, including appointing Johan Djourou as technical director of national teams.

• Sundhage’s departure raises questions about the continuity of Switzerland’s momentum in women’s football, particularly as they prepare for the 2027 Women’s World Cup qualifying cycle.