FC Basel has dismissed head coach Stephan Lichtsteiner with immediate effect. The decision follows a string of disappointing results in the Swiss Super League, as reported by NZZ Sport.
The 42-year-old Lichtsteiner, who only succeeded Fabio Celestini in the summer of 2025, leaves the club after just over a year in charge. In an official statement, FC Basel said: "Die Trennung fällt dem Klub trotz zuletzt unbefriedigenden sportlichen Auftritten nicht leicht." The sporting leadership, including sports director David Degen, saw no future for the collaboration after the 3-3 draw away at BSC Young Boys on August 29th.
What is FC Basel's current league position?
The team sits in fifth place in the Super League after seven matchdays. With ten points from three wins, one draw, and three defeats, they trail league leaders FC Lugano by eight points. Their goal difference is exactly zero, having scored and conceded twelve goals each. A recent uptick in form, with one win and one draw in the last two games, failed to provide the desired turnaround. The current table highlights the tense situation in the mid-table region:
| Position | Team | Played | Points | Goal Diff. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | FC Lugano | 7 | 18 | +9 |
| 5 | FC Basel | 7 | 10 | 0 |
| 6 | FC Luzern | 7 | 9 | -2 |
You can view the complete standings on our standings page. Defensive fragility has been a recurring issue, as evidenced by the even goal tally.
Who will take charge of training now?
Until a new head coach is appointed, the team is expected to be led by an interim solution. The search for a permanent successor is already underway. The new manager must quickly stabilise the squad and reconnect with the leading pack. The sporting directors will place particular emphasis on tactical solidity and Swiss league experience in their selection. The current squad, a mix of experienced players and young talents, certainly has the potential for improvement.
What does this mean for the next fixture?
The next key away match is already this Sunday, September 13th, 2026. FC Basel travels to face direct rivals FC Luzern, who currently occupy sixth place. This duel gains additional significance due to the uncertain managerial situation. A victory would be hugely important for the team's confidence and their position in the table. Preparation for this match is taking place under unusual circumstances. The players must quickly adapt to new instructions. All upcoming fixtures for the season are listed in our fixtures calendar. The match in Luzern kicks off at 16:30.
FC Basel hopes that this personnel decision will provide a fresh impulse for the entire season. The club's officials stress that the choice was not an easy one but necessary for their sporting objectives. The next coach inherits a team that is unbeaten in its last two league games, providing a small positive foundation.
