Hamburger SV issue statement on Stefan Kuntz allegations

Hamburger SV’s supervisory board have responded to controversial media reports regarding Stefan Kuntz.

On Sunday, Bild released a remarkable report on Stefan Kuntz’s sudden departure as Hamburger SV’s board member for sport, a move that was suddenly announced at the beginning of January.

According to the German tabloid, the 63-year-old’s contract was terminated following allegations of sexual harassment made against him by HSV employees.

Kuntz has since taken to Instagram to comment on the situation, firmly denying the claims.

Now, Hamburger SV’s supervisory board have issued their own account of the situation.

“In December 2025, the Supervisory Board of HSV Fußball Management AG received allegations of serious misconduct by Stefan Kuntz,” the club said in a statement.

“In accordance with its responsibilities, the Supervisory Board immediately launched an investigation with the support of specialized external lawyers. After a thorough review and the determination that the allegations were credible, the board promptly decided to pursue the earliest possible separation from the board member. At the explicit request of the affected individuals, protecting those involved was given top priority during the separation and continues to remain so.

“On this basis, and with full knowledge of the allegations against him, Stefan Kuntz agreed to the separation effective 31 December 2025. He was represented by legal counsel throughout the process. Despite multiple opportunities to respond to the supervisory board, Mr. Kuntz explicitly chose not to do so. Against this background, claims of a ‘smear campaign’ against Stefan Kuntz are clearly incorrect and misleading.

“HSV do not tolerate misconduct of this nature at any level of the organization and remain committed to the values of tolerance and respect enshrined in the club’s statutes, standing firmly against discrimination of any kind. The supervisory board considered it essential to act quickly and decisively in this case, and the protection of the personal rights of those affected continues to be HSV’s top priority.”