In a groundbreaking move that marks a significant moment in German football history, RB Leipzig has announced the appointment of Tatjana Haenni as the club’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The 59-year-old Swiss football administrator will take on the role from January 1, 2026, becoming the first woman to lead a top-tier football club in Germany.
Haenni, a former professional footballer, is no stranger to the football world. She earned 23 caps for the Swiss national team during her playing career, which spanned across various clubs. Following her retirement, Haenni transitioned into sports administration, taking up pivotal roles at UEFA, FIFA, and the Swiss Football Association (SFV). Her extensive background in both football and sports management has positioned her as a trailblazer in an industry that has historically been male-dominated.
“I can’t wait to get started in January and to get to know the club on a deeper level,” Haenni said in a statement issued by the club. “Together, we want to continue on what is already a successful path, and achieve our ambitious goals.”
Haenni’s appointment is seen as a step forward for gender equality in the sport, as she becomes a role model for women aspiring to hold leadership positions in football. Her appointment also adds to the growing trend of women in top executive roles within the global sports industry.
The decision to bring Haenni into the fold was lauded by the outgoing CEO, Oliver Mintzlaff, who now serves as a Red Bull executive. Mintzlaff praised Haenni’s expertise, leadership abilities, and strategic insight. “Her specialist knowledge, leadership, and strategic thinking will be key to successfully shaping the club’s next stages of development,” Mintzlaff commented.
RB Leipzig’s rise through the ranks of German football has been nothing short of remarkable. Founded in 2009, the club quickly ascended from the fifth tier to the Bundesliga, Germany’s top football division. Their promotion to the Bundesliga in 2016 marked the beginning of a new era, and since then, the club has clinched two German Cup titles and reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League in 2020.
The club’s rapid ascent has been part of the Red Bull football network’s vision, with other clubs in the network, including New York Red Bulls and Red Bull Bragantino, seeing similar success. Jurgen Klopp, former manager of Liverpool FC, was appointed as the global head of football for Red Bull in January 2025, overseeing the network’s football operations.
