Friedel Rausch
The most successful manager in FC Luzern's history.
Friedel Rausch (27 February 1940 – 18 November 2017) was a German football player and manager. As a manager, he won with FC Luzern the Swiss championship in 1989 and the cup in 1992, thereby becoming the most successful manager in the club's history. In 1969, Rausch was bitten by an Alsatian during the derby of Schalke 04 and Borussia Dortmund. In 2006, Rausch was diagnosed with skin cancer. He died at the age of 77 on 18 November 2017.
- roles
- Player and Head Coach
- status
- Retired
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Friedel Rausch's career as a manager reached its peak at FC Luzern, where he led the club to the Swiss championship in 1989 and the Swiss cup in 1992. These achievements made him the most successful manager in the club's history. Before his managerial success, Rausch had a playing career that included a memorable incident in 1969: during the derby between Schalke 04 and Borussia Dortmund, he was bitten by an Alsatian. Later in life, in 2006, Rausch was diagnosed with skin cancer. He passed away at the age of 77 on 18 November 2017.
In Their Own Story
The rain fell softly on the Waldstadion pitch as evening approached. Friedel stood by the corner flag, arms crossed tightly over his chest, watching his midfielders press high under the floodlights. He knew the weight of the badge better than anyone; he had worn it as a defender before guiding them from the sidelines. Tonight was not about glory alone, but survival and pride.
Reader's Guide
Friedel Rausch remains a unique figure who wore the eagle jersey as both a player and a manager. During his playing career in the early 1970s, he was known for his defensive grit and loyalty to the club's traditional values. He returned decades later to take charge of the first team during a turbulent period in German football. Although the campaign ended in heartbreak against Inter Milan on penalties, it remains one of the club's most celebrated continental achievements. Rausch’s legacy lies in bridging generations. He understood the emotional weight of the Waldstadion and managed veterans alongside emerging talents with equal respect. His departure marked the end of an era before the club entered a period of transition. Fans remember him for bringing dignity and ambition back to Frankfurt football at a critical time.
Did You Know?
- Friedel Rausch was born on 27 February 1940 and died on 18 November 2017 at the age of 77.
- As a manager, he won the Swiss championship with FC Luzern in 1989 and the Swiss cup in 1992.
- He is the most successful manager in FC Luzern's history.
- In 1969, Rausch was bitten by an Alsatian during the derby between Schalke 04 and Borussia Dortmund.
- Rausch was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2006.