Hans Hörnlein, football legend from Thuringia, died at the age of 78

Hans Hörnlein, football legend from Thuringia, died at the age of 78

In the night of Tuesday, July 15, 2025, football in South Thuringia suffered a difficult setback: Hans Hörnlein, known as long-time chairman of the KFA Rhön-Rennsteig, died at the age of 78. His death took place after the consequences of a stroke, which is a big loss not only for his family, but also for the entire football community. [Insuedthueringen] reports that Hörnlein was active in football for almost 50 years and had an incomparable influence on the region.

On April 1, 2025, Hörnlein was able to celebrate his 78th birthday. Since the foundation of the KFA Rhön-Rennsteig in 2012, he had managed the association's fortunes. His voluntary career began in 1977 when he entered the Football Suhl district committee. Sandy Hoffmann, his successor in the KFA, describes him as a "outstanding person" and emphasizes his comprehensive wealth of experience.

a life for football

Hörnlein was not only connected to the KFA, but was also largely involved in other areas. So he was a football official for 48 years and was already planning to face the KFA boss again on March 7, 2020. Under its leadership, the Rhön-Rennsteig soccer group now comprises 78 clubs and around 7,600 members. So he was a central figure for football in South Thuringia and an indispensable component in the community. [TFV Erfurt] states that he has also worked as a examiner in the IHK Südthüringen for 43 years, where he looked after numerous trainees.

Another proof of Hörnlein's commitment is his longstanding membership in SCV Ikalla e.V., where he served as president for 10 years. He was finally appointed an honorary member, which underlines his deep connection to the club. With his death, 115 examiner positions in the IHK must also be filled - a not small cut for this area.

appreciation of his work

In a recently published book on amateur football in South Thuringia, written by Hans-Jürgen Schmidt, the history and development of football in this region are highlighted. Schmidt has compiled important data and corner points that represent a homage to the community and also remind of the distinctive heir of people like Hans Hörnlein. The book is intended for the football scene and the clubs in the district and illustrates how deep football is anchored. [KSB Hildburghausen] provides information on contacting for the event and further information.

Hans Hörnlein has left traces that are not simply blurred. His commitment and passion for football remain unforgettable. The football community in South Thuringia will miss him painfully.