The Haas family of Liechtenstein boasts a remarkable football legacy, highlighted during the 1983/84 season when six brothers played for FC Vaduz. Their half-brother, Adi Noventa, achieved success as a player and coach, while Mario Frick, the family’s most prominent footballer, became Liechtenstein’s record goalscorer. The family’s storied history includes memorable television bets by Alex Haas and a significant influence from their grandmother, Hanni. The brothers’ on-field antics led to controversies, yet their bond with FC Vaduz remains strong.
In Liechtenstein, a remarkable football tale unfolds, showcasing a unique family bond. During the 1983/84 season, FC Vaduz aimed for promotion to National League B, featuring an extraordinary lineup that included six brothers from the Haas family: Mario, Haimo, Markus, René, Modestus, and Alex.
Leading the family legacy was their half-brother Adi Noventa, who made significant strides in football. Transitioning from Vaduz to the Grasshopper Club, he became a Swiss champion in 1970 and later made headlines in the UEFA Cup by scoring against Tottenham Hotspur.
While his younger brothers shone on the field, Noventa took on the role of head coach, proudly remembering his successful tenure leading FC Winterthur into the National League A—a record he held for 38 years until Alex Frei matched it in 2022.
Notable Sponsors: Oliver Kahn and Wladimir Klitschko
Another brother, Benno, also played for FC Vaduz, but it was Mario Frick who left an indelible mark on the game. As Liechtenstein’s all-time leading scorer, he netted 20 goals in over a hundred Serie A matches. His coaching career gained momentum as he led FC Vaduz to Super League promotion and currently stands out at the top of the table with FC Luzern.
Among the siblings, Alex Haas generated buzz when he participated on the German TV show “Wetten, dass…?” He famously bet that he could identify 30 footballers solely by licking their boots. In a later appearance, he also claimed he could distinguish between toilet seat brands just by briefly sitting on them. Although he didn’t win the contests, he successfully completed both wagers under the guidance of sponsors Oliver Kahn and Wladimir Klitschko.
The Family’s Footballing Matriarch: Grandma Hanni
In a surprising twist, it was a woman who significantly influenced the family’s sporting journey. Hanni, the Italian-born mother of the Haas brothers, became an integral figure at FC Vaduz, taking on various roles from ground maintenance to jersey laundering while supporting her sons.
The brothers inherited their athletic talent from their father, who also coached Liechtenstein’s first women’s football team. Their childhood was spent playing football in a field near their home, often influenced by local guest workers who spoke Italian. Young Mario, raised by his grandmother, was seen as a beloved addition to the family, participating in their games from the start.
As the oldest, Adi Noventa experienced the duality of being both a caregiver and an athlete, using his younger brothers as practice dummies during their informal games.
Trial and Triumph with Grasshoppers
One of the Haas brothers made a mark at Grasshoppers when Markus and Haimo were invited for a trial. Ultimately, Markus secured a spot, but injuries hindered his progress, while Haimo pursued opportunities at rival Xamax. Unfortunately, he faced challenges early in his career, including injuries sustained during his debut.
Reflecting on their childhood footballing style, Adi Noventa notes the lack of structured training in Liechtenstein, which developed their instincts but left them unprepared for the rigors of professional play. Despite this, these experiences shaped Mario Frick’s more disciplined approach to the sport.
Controversy and Resilience
The Haas brothers faced scrutiny both on and off the pitch. Their reputation for accumulating yellow and red cards led to tensions with referees. A notorious incident in 1989 during a match against FC Rorschach saw two Haas brothers sent off, prompting outcry over the referee’s harsh decisions. Modestus Haas, after receiving a red card, infamously returned to confront the referee, leading to further complications for the family.
In the aftermath, the brothers issued a statement condemning Modestus’s actions while highlighting their family’s history of playing with heart and passion.
A Legacy Reborn
Today, Modestus boasts the distinction of being the only Haas brother to play for Liechtenstein in their inaugural international tournament qualifications, reflecting the family’s deep-rooted connection to the sport.
The relationship between FC Vaduz and the Haas brothers has since been mended, with the family welcomed back to former player reunions. With Brigitte Haas emerging as a candidate for Liechtenstein’s government elections, the family’s influence continues. Known for their tenacity and spirit, “Z Haasä” might once again make significant