Raiders Tirol reload includes signing of championship coach for 2026 campaign

The Raiders Tirol are heading into the 2026 season with a renewed sense of purpose after a challenging 6-6 campaign, welcoming back legendary coach Shuan Fatah to lead the franchise he once built into a European powerhouse. While last season didn’t meet expectations, the team’s core strengths and the return of a proven winner have Innsbruck buzzing about what’s next for this proud organization.

Ground game provides foundation for success
Let’s be clear—this team can run the ball. The Raiders boasted the third-best rushing attack in the ELF last season, racking up 2,337 yards behind a deep stable of backs featuring Tobias Bonatti, Lukas Haslwanter, and Tim Tonko. Their offensive line was downright nasty, allowing only 17 sacks all season while paving the way for red zone efficiency that ranked second in the league. When they needed to score, they knew how to punch it in. That physical identity gives Fatah exactly the kind of foundation he needs to implement his system from day one.

New leadership, familiar face
Bringing back Shuan Fatah isn’t just another coaching hire—it’s a home run swing that signals the Raiders are serious about returning to championship form. The man literally built this franchise into a winner during his previous stint, delivering five Austrian Bowls and a Eurobowl title. His proven track record of developing talent and winning big games provides instant credibility and excitement throughout the organization. After the departure of Jim Herrmann, getting a coach of Fatah’s caliber is exactly the spark this team needed.

Addressing the offensive balance
The 2025 season revealed clear areas for growth, particularly in the passing game where the team ranked 12th with just over 2,000 yards. The quarterback position saw contributions from multiple players, with N’Kosi Perry throwing for 1,536 yards and 16 touchdowns in eight games before Conor Miller’s early injury. Improving offensive balance will be a key focus as the team evaluates its roster and implements its system. Finding consistent production through the air will be essential to complement the team’s established ground attack.

Bright future in the Alps
The pieces are there for a quick turnaround. With Fatah’s leadership and the team’s proven ability to control games on the ground, the Raiders are positioned to make some noise in 2026. This isn’t a rebuild—it’s a reload with one of Europe’s best coaches back where he belongs.