UEFA CEO Gerhard Aigner today informed the Executive Committee of UEFA, that he does not seek prolongation of his contract which expires on 31 December 2003. Instead he is taking up the contractual option of early retirement at the age of 60.

Gerhard Aigner, a German citizen, joined UEFA on 1 October 1969 as Secretary for Youth Competitions and Refereeing. He was subsequently appointed Head of the Competition Department and Head of Organisation. On 1 January 1989 the UEFA Executive Committee appointed him General Secretary and on 1 December 1999 he became UEFA’s first ever CEO.

Gerhard Aigner said today:

‘I have thoroughly enjoyed my administrative career with UEFA over the last 33 years and I believe that UEFA is in a good shape for the future. But I have a young family and I intend to devote more time to them and to my private interests, which I regret I was not able to do in the past. I will remain fully involved in UEFA until the end of this year and will work with the UEFA President to ensure a smooth succession’.

Lennart Johansson, UEFA President said:

‘Gerd Aigner is a friend, a very loyal colleague and has been a great servant of European football. His energy, commitment and vision have been a vital part of UEFA’s success for more than three decades. He is also a devoted family man and I totally respect his decision to spend more time with them. European football’s loss is his family’s gain – we wish him and them the very best for the future’.

For further information:

Mike Lee, Director of Communications and Public Affairs: ++41-79-250 53 71
UEFA Media Services: ++41-22-99 44 55 9