Didi Kühbauer Refuses Handshake with Rival Coach, Sparks Post-Match Conflict

The aftermath of the UNIQA ÖFB Cup semi-final match between SV Oberbank Ried and LASK Linz on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, was marked by tension and controversy after LASK coach Didi Kühbauer refused to shake hands with Ried coach Maximilian Senft. The incident occurred following LASK’s 2-1 victory in extra time, securing their place in the cup final.

Escalating Tensions

Kühbauer publicly stated that a handshake with Senft would “never happen again,” citing a series of escalating disputes. According to Kühbauer, Senft instigated a “rudelbildung” (a group confrontation) among his players, which Kühbauer found “shocking.”

History of Conflict

The animosity between the two coaches stems from several recent incidents. Kühbauer accused Senft of alleging that LASK engaged in training espionage, claiming his team manager was observed on the running track at Ried’s facilities. Kühbauer firmly denied these accusations, stating, “I have never sent any of my employees to another facility. I don’t think that’s right when someone does that.”

Further fueling the conflict was an incident involving a burning fan scarf and a video featuring Ried’s president, Gahleitner, which Kühbauer deemed “senseless.” The postponement of the original cup match two weeks prior due to dense fog also contributed to the strained relationship. Kühbauer acknowledged the situation wasn’t one of “hatred,” but noted his team was “partially overwhelmed with insults” in Ried.

Post-Match Confrontation

Following the match, Kühbauer’s celebration with LASK fans reportedly led to a verbal altercation and being pelted with beer from the stands. Ligaportal.at documented the exchange in a video posted on Instagram.

Match Details

The ÖFB Cup semi-final, initially postponed due to fog, saw LASK overcome Ried 2-1 after extra time. LASK captain Sascha Horvath returned to the starting lineup after becoming a father. Ried’s coach, Maximilian Senft, started Martin Rasner in place of Jonas Mayer in defensive midfield. Nachrichten.at provided a live ticker during the match.

Looking Ahead

LASK will advance to the ÖFB Cup final, whereas the conflict between Kühbauer and Senft appears unlikely to be resolved. The incident highlights the intense rivalry between the two Austrian clubs and the passionate emotions surrounding the cup competition.