Club
Werder president's future uncertain ahead of election
Werder Bremen president Hubertus Hess-Grunewald may step down after 24 years. November vote will decide his future.
Werder Bremen president may step down after 24 years Hubertus Hess-Grunewald (65) may step down as Werder Bremen president after 24 years in the role. The long-serving club boss has indicated his re-election is not certain, telling the „Deichstube“ he may not stand again if talks with the board fail. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 15th in Bundesliga, 32 pts, 8W-8D-18L from 34 games, recent form LLLDW. ## Why the uncertainty? Hess-Grunewald has been a Werder member since 1970 and president since 2014. His re-election was previously considered a formality. But now he admits: „I have a willingness to run, but no certainty.“ ## What happens next? If re-elected, Hess-Grunewald could step down early, paving the way for successor Philipp Mehrtens (47), who briefly served on the supervisory board in 2023. The November 15 members' meeting will decide. ## Impact on the club Hess-Grunewald’s potential departure would mark a turning point for Werder. The club faces major challenges, both on and off the pitch. After scoring just 37 goals and conceding 60 last season (15th place), they must avoid another relegation battle. Their next match is against Borussia Dortmund on February 20, 2027.