Sturm Graz’s defensive boost: dual‑registration signing of Johanna Riedler

SK Sturm Graz have secured defender Johanna Riedler on a dual registration contract, permitting her to continue representing LUV Graz while strengthening Sturm’s back line for the 2026/27 ÖFB-Frauen Bundesliga campaign. The agreement was announced ahead of the season that begins in August.

After finishing comfortably in third place last season, SK Sturm Graz are looking to add defensive depth to sustain their push for the title. The club has already reinforced the squad with Lilla Sipos, signalling a broader strategy to bolster the defensive unit.

Johanna Riedler joins SK Sturm Graz from second‑division side LUV Graz on a dual registration deal, meaning she can still play for LUV Graz throughout the 2026/27 season. Riedler featured for LUV Graz during the 2025/26 campaign, when the team finished eighth, just one point behind FC Pinzgau Saalfelden.

Reflecting on the move, Johanna Riedler said, “I am very grateful for the opportunity to be part of SK Sturm Graz. At the same time to continue playing for LUV Graz in order to develop myself in the best possible way.” She added that she enters the new season with great motivation and looks forward to the collaboration and upcoming challenges.

Sporting director Michael Erlitz explained, “The cooperation with LUV Graz is an important building block for us in the development of young players. Johanna has developed very positively in recent years and absolutely deserves this opportunity with her performances.” Erlitz stressed that maintaining playing time at LUV Graz is crucial for her growth and that the partnership benefits all parties, especially the players.

SK Sturm Graz will open their 2026/27 ÖFB-Frauen Bundesliga campaign in August with a home match against SCR Altach. They will face a competitive field that includes defending champions Austria Wien, as well as Rapid Wien, RB Salzburg and SKN St. Pölten, all investing heavily to challenge for the title.

Balancing Riedler’s dual commitments will require careful management to ensure she gains sufficient minutes at both clubs. If the cooperation succeeds, Sturm Graz expect her defensive contributions to help maintain their upward trajectory in Austrian women’s football.