The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially announced the departure of Nora Hauptle as the head coach of the Black Queens after unsuccessful contract renewal negotiations. Hauptle’s initial two-year contract came to an end on 31st December 2024, and both parties were unable to reach an agreement on new terms.
In a statement released on Saturday, 4th January 2025, the GFA expressed their gratitude for Hauptle’s contributions to the Black Queens, saying, “The GFA wishes to express its sincere gratitude to Nora Hauptle for her service to the Black Queens and Ghana Women’s Football.”
During her two-year tenure with the Black Queens, the GFA covered Hauptle’s salary and accommodation expenses. The GFA made efforts to renew Hauptle’s contract in June 2024, offering her an enhanced salary and working conditions. Unfortunately, they could not come to an agreement.
Hauptle’s departure comes at a crucial time for the Black Queens, with only six months left until the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. The GFA has assured fans that they will appoint a new head coach shortly to lead the team.
On the other hand, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has appointed Hauptle as the new head coach of the Copper Queens on a three-year deal. FAZ highlighted Hauptle’s coaching experience, mentioning her successful career as a defender in Europe and her coaching stint with SC Sand in the German Frauen-Bundesliga.
Hauptle, who represented Switzerland at the international level as a player, is expected to be officially unveiled by Zambia in the coming days. Her appointment brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Copper Queens as they prepare for upcoming competitions.
The GFA and FAZ are now set to move forward with new coaching appointments, as both teams look to make an impact in the world of women’s football. The departure of Hauptle from the Black Queens marks the end of an era, but also signals a new beginning for both teams as they strive for success on the international stage.
