Peter Mueller, former coach of the German Ice Speed Skating Association (DESG), has publicly criticized DESG President Matthias Große, citing ongoing issues and leadership failures within the federation.
Sportschau, a German sports news outlet, reported on Mueller’s statements and the ongoing controversy surrounding DESG governance.
Mueller, who coached the German sprint and middle-distance speed skating team from 2021 to 2024, strongly condemned Große’s leadership since his appointment in 2020. He stated that the president promised to restore the DESG to its former prominence but that the situation has deteriorated significantly under his tenure. Mueller asserted that Große lacks fairness and empathy and described him as effectively damaging the future of German speed skating.
The former Olympic gold medalist expressed frustration over a lack of transparent communication and recurring financial problems within the federation. He referred to unresolved issues such as unpaid athlete bonuses and a persistent atmosphere of fear that discouraged athletes from raising concerns. According to Mueller, many athletes preferred to keep problems private rather than approach the leadership with complaints.
Mueller also criticized the leadership dynamics involving Große and prominent athlete Claudia Pechstein, claiming their actions prioritized personal interests over the welfare of athletes. Despite having supported Pechstein during her doping scandal, Mueller felt sidelined by both her and Große. His coaching contract was not renewed after the 2023-2024 season, a decision Mueller states was unexplained beyond an official reason of restructuring the coaching staff. He highlighted how his departure disrupted the preparation of athletes ahead of the Olympic Games.
In response to inquiries, Große and Pechstein have refrained from commenting directly, stating they require more time to issue a statement. Große plans to address the allegations and federation issues during a press conference in Berlin. This follows investigative reports revealing that athletes have had to pay participation fees for key competitions, a practice currently under legal review by the athlete representation within DESG.
Mueller welcomes the renewed public discussion about the federation’s management and hopes it brings necessary changes. He emphasized that the recent revelations have reinforced his long-held concerns about DESG’s governance and internal climate.
