Villacher SV is at a crossroads. © Social Media / Villacher SV

Critical situation in Villach: Now the HCP boss is intervening.

Just days before the start of the ICE Hockey League (ICEHL) season, chaos reigns at Villacher SV. Erich Falkensteiner, president of HC Pustertal, a South Tyrolean, is now campaigning to keep the Eagles in the league.

September 14, 2026

From: leo

Villacher SV is one of the most traditional ice hockey clubs in Austria and a founding member of the ICEHL. However, the Eagles are now facing severe turmoil: Following the resignation of managing director Martin Winkler and other administrative staff, VSV is fighting for its very survival – just days before the start of the season.

According to media reports, the Carinthian company's debts amount to several million euros. On the one hand, they owe money to the tax office and the regional health insurance fund, in addition to claims stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, they are also short approximately half a million euros for ongoing operations.

Falkensteiner helps

The full extent of the club's precarious financial situation is to be revealed on Tuesday at a crisis meeting in the town hall at 14 p.m. As things stand, VSV will play its first game of the season against Pioneers Vorarlberg on Friday as planned, but nothing seems certain at this point.

Erich Falkensteiner is involved with the VSV.

Amidst all the chaos, HCP boss and ICEHL vice president Erich Falkensteiner extended a helping hand. As he told the Kronen Zeitung He explained that he was "constantly on the phone" and in constant contact with VSV chairman Manfred Herzog. He ruled out providing financial support from his own pocket; instead, he would assist VSV in finding a new managing director and sponsors, acting as an intermediary. Falkensteiner will be present in Villach on Tuesday and will participate in the crisis meeting.

Without a managing director, the league cannot operate, as the club has stated in recent days. If the search remains unsuccessful for the next three days, the ICEHL is likely to lose one of its biggest names before the season even begins.