Stories from Zurich · Switzerland

FC Basel has been disqualified from the playoff semifinal after losing their quarterfinal second leg match against FC St. Gallen. The league announced that Basel made too many substitutions and used an ineligible player who was not on the match sheet.

Researchers at ETH Zurich have launched a seven-year prepared experiment located 1.5 kilometers beneath the Earth's surface in the Pedretto Tunnel. For safety reasons, no personnel are currently inside the tunnel during the operation. The experiment is being operated remotely from a command center at ETH Zurich. Initial reports indicate that water pumps are reaching desired pressure levels and sensor signals are being received. Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an experimental procedure using sensors to monitor pressure during underground operations. The team stated the probability of causing light damage is less than 1 in 10,000. This risk is significantly lower than the probability of damage caused by natural earthquakes. The experiment aims to ensure safety during the final stages of the process.

A Swiss court awarded 1,360 Swiss francs in compensation to one individual following a one-sided positive reaction to BRG Covid-19 vaccinations in early 2021. A second individual was awarded 6,000 Swiss francs in satisfaction.

A recent survey in Switzerland indicates public support for expanded medical screenings.

Michael Kunz, the 41-year-old current head of Lidl Austria, will become the first Swiss national to hold the CEO position at Lidl Switzerland starting this autumn. Kunz previously began his career with the company as a store manager for Lidl Switzerland.

The Stefanini Foundation is returning a painting by Ferdinand Hodler to the heirs of Martha Nathan. The artwork, titled 'Thunersee mit Blümli-Salp und Niesen', entered Bruno Stefanini's possession in 1998. Martha Nathan was a Jewish woman persecuted by the Nazis who fled to Switzerland in 1939. A painting by renowned Bernese artist Ferdinand Hodler is being returned to the heirs of its former owner. The independent commission of the Stefanini Foundation for Art, Culture, and History in Zurich announced the decision today. The commission is currently investigating the provenance of various works held by the Stefanini Foundation that changed ownership during World War II. The SKKG independent commission ruled that a painting must be returned to the heirs of Jewish collector Martha Nathan.

Swiss political entities have expressed concern that UBS may reduce its political donations following discussions on banking regulation. According to a report by the bank, UBS donated 1.2 million Swiss francs to various parties last year.

A commission has withdrawn a penalty against a former president, which included a payment of 10,000 francs. The decision is being criticized because the report described the payments as disproportionately high for the mandate.

Mobility, Switzerland's largest carsharing provider, is encountering resistance in its transition to an all-electric fleet by 2030. Many users reportedly distrust new electric vehicle technology and continue to prefer gasoline and diesel vehicles.

Entrepreneur and music manager Freddy Burger was awarded the Honorary Prize at the Privalo ceremony in Zurich. The 80-year-old recipient was recognized for his life's work, which includes managing Udo Jürgens, the Hasi-Osterwald-Sextett, and actor Walter Roderer. Burger thanked his employees and family during his acceptance speech. The ceremony marked the 50th edition of the Privalo awards. Moderator Nick Hartmann received the Audience Award during the 50th Privalo ceremony. The event took place on Saturday evening. In Freiburg, fans of the ice hockey club Freiburg-Gottéron celebrated the first championship title in the club's history. The event included various stands, animations, and sponsors distributing promotional items. The announcement was made by moderator Nik Hartm.