Martin Schmidt bids farewell to Mainz 05

Martin Schmidt has left his role as consultant at 1. FSV Mainz 05. The 57-year-old already vacated his post as sporting director in summer 2024 due to personal reasons and will now step away from the club completely. The decision had already been reached mutually some time ago, but it was agreed that it would not be implemented until after the winter transfer window closed. Schmidt’s responsibilities will be taken on by sporting director Niko Bungert, technical director Meikel Schönweitz and director of scouting and analysis Bernd Legien.

Schmidt spent a total of 12 years with the 05ers in a variety of roles. The Swiss arrived at Mainz in 2010 as U23s coach, going on to achieve promotion to the third division. In 2015, he took over as head coach of the first team with the club in danger of relegation and ultimately led them to the group stage of the UEFA Europa League, before parting ways in 2017. Three years later, Schmidt returned to Bruchweg, this time in the role of sporting director. Together with board member for sport Christian Heidel and then head coach Bo Svensson, he helped the club survive relegation against all the odds, having had just seven points on the board at the halfway stage.

“Mainz has shaped my life”

“During our time working together at Mainz 05, which began back in 2010, we have experienced many special moments.  He has been part of emotional and successful relegation battles both as a coach and sporting director, he led us into the group stage of the Europa League for the first time in club history, and he has continued to help the club in his roles as sporting director and consultant with his incredible footballing expertise. On top of that, Martin’s jovial nature was always a perfect fit in the open and loving culture of our club and city. Working together for over a decade creates a bond – Martin will always remain a good friend of mine and of the club,” said Mainz 05 board member for sport Christian Heidel.

Martin Schmidt: “After so many years, saying goodbye brings up a lot of emotions for me. It was a long journey together, which began as the U23s coach, then taking the club into Europe as head coach, and most recently as sporting director celebrating Bundesliga survival twice alongside the 05er family and the whole city. Now is the right time for me to say thank you and goodbye. Mainz has shaped my life, and I will carry the many experiences, successes and unforgettable moments of joy with me into new projects and challenges that lie ahead. Merci, dear Mainzer.”