In a significant move for Austrian football, Josef Pröll was unanimously elected as the new Chairman of the Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) during the Bundeshauptversammlung in Bregenz. This marks the beginning of a four-year term for Pröll, who steps into a role that has been redefined by the association's recent structural reforms. The highest position within the ÖFB will now be known as the Chairman of the Supervisory Board, a title change that reflects the association's shift towards a more corporate governance model.

The election of Pröll, a former Vice Chancellor and leader of the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP), was met with widespread approval, signaling a desire for unity and stability within the ÖFB. In his acceptance speech, Pröll emphasized the importance of teamwork and a collective effort to qualify for the World Cup, urging the association to move forward with a clear strategy. 'We must pull together. We want to bring calm and let team coach Ralf Rangnick and his team work so that we can qualify for the World Cup,' Pröll stated, highlighting his commitment to depoliticize the role and focus solely on football.

Accompanying Pröll's election was the unanimous approval of structural reforms aimed at modernizing the ÖFB's governance. These changes include the transformation of the ÖFB presidency into a supervisory board and a shift of competencies towards full-time professionals. The reforms are seen as a step towards ensuring the association's future success, with Pröll advocating for a forward-looking approach. 'Companies without a strategy, only with a view to the past and 'business as usual,' have no future,' he remarked, underscoring the need for a clear vision.

The Bundeshauptversammlung also marked the end of an era for Horst Lumper, President of the Vorarlberg Football Association (VFV), who stepped down after 20 years of service. Lumper's departure, announced last winter amidst internal disputes, paves the way for new leadership under Alfons Kirchmann. With Pröll at the helm and a renewed focus on unity and strategic planning, the ÖFB looks to turn a new page in its history, aiming for success both on and off the pitch.