Alfred Gislason Extends Tenure as German Handball National Team Coach Through 2028
The German Handball Association (DHB) has confirmed the extension of Alfred Gislason’s contract as head coach of the men’s national team, securing his role through the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The decision, announced on May 22, 2026, ensures Gislason will remain at the helm beyond the 2027 home World Championship, which runs from January 13 to 31, 2027.
Gislason: “Our Story Is Far From Over”
Gislason, 66, expressed his commitment to the team in a statement: “Being the head coach of the German handball national team is more than a profession — I experience this every home game, like the 19,750 fans in Cologne recently. My task was to renew the national team, and we have succeeded. I am grateful for the trust to continue this work until 2028. I am convinced that with our players, we can take the final step: The silver medals at the 2024 Olympics and the 2026 European Championship motivate us all. Our story is far from over.”
DHB Officials Praise Gislason’s Leadership
DHB sports director Ingo Meckes highlighted Gislason’s qualities, calling him “not only an impressive coach but also a reliable person in every aspect.” DHB president Andreas Michelmann described the 66-year-old as “a rock in the storm.”
Olympic and European Silver Under Gislason
Since taking charge in 2020, Gislason has led the team to Olympic silver in Paris (2024) and European Championship silver in January 2026, both losses to Denmark. Despite recent discussions about his potential replacement after the 2027 World Championship, Gislason reiterated his desire to continue beyond the tournament. Meckes emphasized the DHB’s commitment to a transparent decision-making process, stating, “We are weighing all possibilities, but clarity must be achieved before the World Championship begins.”
The extension underscores the DHB’s confidence in Gislason’s ability to guide the team toward its next major milestones, including the 2028 Olympics.