FC Carl Zeiss Jena Launches Donation Drive for Former Coach Heiko Weber Amid Cancer Battle
Former FC Carl Zeiss Jena player and coach Heiko Weber, 60, is battling pancreatic cancer, prompting the club and its supporters to launch a donation campaign to help cover the costs of his pain therapy. The news of Weber’s illness has resonated throughout the football community in eastern Germany, given his significant contributions to the club.
A Legendary Figure at FC Carl Zeiss Jena
Heiko Weber’s impact on FC Carl Zeiss Jena is undeniable. He played 264 matches for the club, with interruptions, between 1988 and 2000. Beyond his playing career, Weber also served as the team’s coach, leading them to two consecutive promotions from the Oberliga back into the 2. Bundesliga in 2005 and 2006.
Spontaneous Outpouring of Support
The fundraising campaign was initiated by the club’s honorary council, election committee, and fan representative. Within hours of launching on Gofundme, the campaign had already raised over 33,000 euros (as of Saturday, February 15, 2026, 17:00 Uhr). The funds will be used to alleviate the immense financial burden of Weber’s pain therapy.
Messages of Support
Ralph Grillitsch, President of FC Carl Zeiss Jena, expressed the club’s unwavering support for Weber. “Anyone who knows Heiko knows what an incredibly empathetic person he is. He has played a key role in shaping our club as a player and coach for over 20 years. We stand by Heiko’s side and we wish him a lot of strength in this phase. And we are sure that the love of the fans, which he has earned with his appearance and his achievements, can give him a lot of strength that he so urgently needs now,” Grillitsch stated.
Toni Wachsmuth, Sportgeschäftsführer of Lok Leipzig, who previously played under Weber in Jena, also offered his support, calling on people to donate for “Benno.”
How to Support Heiko Weber
Fans wishing to offer support can send messages, greetings, pictures, and comments here. Financial contributions can be made through the Gofundme campaign.