Patrick von Gunten Appointed as New National Team Director for Swiss Ice Hockey
Swiss Ice Hockey has officially named Patrick von Gunten as the new National Team Director, marking a significant leadership transition for the federation. The 41-year-aged will officially step into the role following the conclusion of the home World Championship in May.
Von Gunten serves as the successor to Lars Weibel, who is departing the federation to become the Sportchef at Ambri-Piotta. Currently, von Gunten is heavily involved in the operational side of the sport, managing the organization of the upcoming World Championship events hosted in Zurich and Fribourg.
A Decorated Career on the Ice
Von Gunten brings an elite playing pedigree to the administrative side of the game. A former Swiss international, he earned 74 caps for the national team and was a key part of the squad that secured World Championship silver in 2013. His professional club career spanned over 500 games in the National League, primarily with Kloten, supplemented by a season in Sweden playing for Frölunda. This deep experience across different European leagues provides a strong foundation for his new leadership role.
Political Friction and a Controversial Choice
Despite his credentials, the controversial selection has highlighted a rift between the Swiss Ice Hockey Federation and the National League. Reports indicate that the league strongly favored Paolo Duca, the 44-year-old former Ambri Sportchef, citing his extensive leadership experience in professional hockey as a vital asset for evolving the sport’s structures.
The decision to pass over Duca in favor of von Gunten—who is viewed more as a skilled organizer than a seasoned executive—has led to tensions between the federation and the league. While Paolo Duca missed out on the post, other candidates like former SC Bern Sportchef Alex Chatelain had already withdrawn from consideration weeks prior.
As the federation prepares for the high-stakes environment of a home World Championship, the appointment of von Gunten ensures a level of organizational stability, even as the political landscape between the league and the governing body remains strained. The move signals a preference for a steady hand as the national team continues its pursuit of global success.
