New Zealand international striker Jacqui Hand has completed a significant move to Swiss Women’s Super League side FC Basel, signing a two-year contract that runs until the summer of 2028. The 26-year-old forward joins Basel from Norwegian club Kolbotn IL as part of the club’s mid-season transfer window reinforcements.
Hand, who has become a key figure for the Football Ferns with nine goals in 36 appearances, will wear the number 8 jersey as she embarks on a new challenge in Switzerland’s top flight.
Rising Career and International Impact
Hand’s journey to Basel reflects a varied and international club career. She began her senior football journey in New Zealand with Eastern Suburbs before moving to the United States to play college football for the Colorado College Tigers. After her collegiate career, she played in Finland with Åland United and had spells in England with Lewes FC and Sheffield United before joining Kolbotn IL in Norway last year.
FC Basel’s head of women’s football, Fabian Sangines, spoke highly of Hand’s arrival, underscoring her qualities and what she brings to the team.
“Jacqui brings international experience and a certain maturity that will give our attacking play new impetus,” Sangines said. “Her goal-scoring instinct, her dribbling skills and her good passing are, of course, very beneficial to our playing style.” Friends of Football
Basel currently sit mid-table in the 10-team Swiss Women’s Super League after 12 rounds, and Hand’s addition — one of three overseas recruits during the midwinter break is aimed at boosting the club’s attacking threat.
A Boost for Ferns and Basel Ambitions
Hand’s move to Basel not only marks a fresh chapter in her club career but could also positively impact the Football Ferns ahead of upcoming international campaigns. Known for her pace, technical ability and finishing, she adds depth to Basel’s forward line and brings valuable experience from her time in multiple European leagues.
Her continued development in Switzerland may also enhance her influence on the international stage as New Zealand prepares for World Cup qualifiers and other major competitions in the years ahead.
This transfer underscores Hand’s steady rise through women’s football and sets the stage for the next phase of her growing career.
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