Rhein-Neckar Löwen sack Maik Machulla – Michel Abt takes over as head coach
Rhein-Neckar Löwen have parted ways with head coach Maik Machulla following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 season. The 49-year-old German coach has been relieved of his duties with immediate effect after the home defeat against ThSV Eisenach. His former assistant, Michel Abt, has been appointed as the new head coach.
Machulla, who was also responsible for squad planning, leaves the Bundesliga club after a series of disappointing results. Despite a promising pre-season preparation, the team failed to translate its potential into positive performances in competitive matches.
“Despite many positive signs and a strong pre-season, the team has failed to achieve positive results so far. This, combined with the disappointing performance in our home match against Eisenach, led us to the decision to relieve Maik Machulla of his duties with immediate effect. We thank Maik for his commitment and wish him all the best for the future,” said managing director Holger Bachert.
Machulla admitted that the start of the season had fallen short of expectations but expressed his respect for the club’s decision.
“Of course, we all imagined a different start to the season. I respect the club’s decision, although I would have very much liked to continue working with this team. I truly appreciated the daily work with the players and remain convinced of their quality and potential. Above all, I hope the team will be rewarded for its hard work and achieve the success it is capable of,” said Machulla.
Michel Abt, 36, will now take charge of the team. The German coach has strong ties to Rhein-Neckar Löwen, having progressed through the club’s youth system before representing both the first and second teams as a player. He subsequently coached the reserve team between 2017 and 2022 before taking charge of Eulen Ludwigshafen.
Abt returned to Rhein-Neckar Löwen ahead of the 2025/26 season as an assistant coach and will now have the opportunity to lead the Bundesliga side.
“Michel has the Löwen DNA and knows the team very well. We regard him as an excellent handball expert and are convinced that he will have a positive impact as head coach,” Bachert explained.
Abt thanked his predecessor and expressed confidence in the team’s future.
“First of all, I would like to thank Maik for our cooperation. At the same time, I am looking forward to this challenge and appreciate the trust placed in me. This club means a lot to me, and I am convinced that together we can put this team on a successful path,” said the new head coach.
Rhein-Neckar Löwen will announce their new assistant coach in due course, while the club will also evaluate the future structure of its sporting management.
