Ralf Rangnick signs Austria extension through 2028 ahead of World Cup
Short overview
Ralf Rangnick has signed a contract extension with Austria through 2028, days before their first FIFA World Cup appearance in 28 years. The 67-year-old coach guided the team to direct qualification with a dramatic late goal in qualifying.
Ralf Rangnick has signed a contract extension with the Austrian Football Association that will keep him as head coach until 2028, the federation announced just days before Austria's return to the FIFA World Cup after a 28-year absence.
Contract extension announced on eve of World Cup
The 67-year-old German coach, who previously managed Manchester United during the 2021/22 season, has been preparing Austria for their first World Cup appearance since 1998. The extension comes as a significant vote of confidence in Rangnick's project, which has revitalized the national team.
"I am delighted that we are able to share this fantastic news with our fans just before the start of the World Cup," Austrian FA Supervisory Board Chairman Josef Proll said in an official statement. "It is an important signal of unity and our shared sporting ambitions. The clarity we have created is particularly important for the team."
Dramatic qualifying campaign
Rangnick guided Austria to the World Cup finals through a dramatic qualifying campaign. The team appeared destined for a European play-off spot, but a late goal by Michael Gregoritsch in the final group match against Bosnia and Herzegovina leveled the score and secured direct qualification at their opponents' expense.
World Cup 2026 group stage
Austria have been drawn in Group J for the 2026 World Cup. They will begin their campaign on Tuesday against Jordan in San Francisco, before facing Algeria and reigning champions Argentina. The extension ensures Rangnick will lead the team through the next World Cup cycle, including potential qualification for the 2028 European Championship.
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