Maximilian Ritscher Takes Over as Head Coach from Markus Schopp

Despite recent narrow victories in the ADMIRAL Bundesliga, LASK has concluded that the team’s sporting development and performances have not met expectations. The decision to part ways with Markus Schopp was made with the final goal of the season in mind: qualifying for the European competition. A thorough analysis of the team’s current situation revealed that the performance levels had not kept pace with the results.

As a result, the club has decided that a separation is the best course of action. LASK believes this decision will provide the necessary impetus for the crucial final phase of the season. Schopp took charge of the team in September 2024 and was on the sidelines for 31 competitive matches with the Black-and-Whites. LASK would like to thank him for his efforts over the past months and wishes him all the best for the future!

With Maximilian Ritscher, a familiar member of the coaching staff is taking charge of the team for the remaining tasks of the current season. The 31-year-old UEFA A-license holder has served as an assistant coach at LASK for several years and knows the team and internal processes very well.

“This situation isn’t entirely new to me — I’ve been working with the team for a long time. We already experienced something similar last year. I’m looking forward to the challenge and will approach it with full commitment,” said Ritscher, who began his coaching career in the academy in 2018. He has been part of the first-team coaching staff since January 2022.