German Handball Federation does not prolong Heuberger's contract

The German Handball Federation (DHB) will not prolong the contract, due to expire on 30 June 2014, with its men's national team head coach Martin Heuberger.

The announcement on Wednesday came five days after the German national team missed the qualification for the World Championship 2015 after losing 28:29 to Poland in the play-off's second leg.

"We talked with open hearts and analysed the situation of the team and its corresponding perspectives," said DHB President Bernhard Bauer.

"After failing to qualify for the World Championship, we found ourselves in a difficult situation which did not allow for a future cooperation with Heuberger.

"We need new stimuli in order to advance in what we call 'Perspective 2020'."

Vice President Bob Hanning added: "We are very thankful to Martin for the transition and the most recent developments within the team he started. However, taking the current situation and the fact that we missed another major tournament into account, it was not possible to extend the contract.

"We will now start looking for a successor with all the necessary ease and calmness."

Heuberger took over the German national team in July 2011 as the successor of Heiner Brand. Before that he had been responsible from 2003 to 2011 for the German junior teams with which he won two European and two World Championships.

The men's national team, however, under his guidance did not qualify for the 2012 Olympic Games, the EHF EURO 2014 and the World Championship 2015.

"I have started the team's transition in 2011, a development which I deemed fitting and necessary. Such a transition needs time," said Heuberger.

"We played two good play-offs, but we weren't good enough to beat Poland. That's why we did not qualify for Qatar.

"I respect the presidents' decision to continue the transition we started with a new coach. I do believe in the team's potential.

"If the environment is improved further and if we manage to guide the talented players we have slowly towards the team, it will be possible to return to the top. I wish my successor the best of luck."