Rinat Akhmetov Reflects on Shakhtar Donetsk's Legacy Amidst War
‘I was five seconds from death’: Rinat Akhmetov, Ukraine’s richest man, on owning Shakhtar and resisting Russia
Image: The Guardian
Rinat Akhmetov, Ukraine's wealthiest individual and owner of Shakhtar Donetsk, discusses the club's resilience during the ongoing war with Russia. He reflects on his journey from a childhood dream of football to leading a team that symbolizes Ukrainian identity and resistance, emphasizing the need for unity and investment for Ukraine's future.
- 01Akhmetov became president of Shakhtar Donetsk in 1996, transforming the club into a symbol of Ukrainian pride.
- 02Shakhtar has faced significant challenges since Russia's invasion in 2014, yet has returned to European competitions, representing Ukraine on the world stage.
- 03Akhmetov emphasizes the importance of a unified Ukraine and the need for reparations from Russia for war damages.
- 04He maintains a strong relationship with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, praising his leadership during the war.
- 05Akhmetov envisions a future where Shakhtar plays in Donetsk again, contributing to the rebuilding of Ukraine.
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In a rare interview, Rinat Akhmetov, the owner of Shakhtar Donetsk and Ukraine's richest man, reflects on the club's journey and its role as a symbol of Ukrainian resilience amidst the ongoing war with Russia. Meeting shortly after a significant aerial raid on Kyiv that left at least 25 dead, Akhmetov discusses the club's 90-year history and his personal connection to football, which began in his childhood in Donbas. He became president of Shakhtar in 1996, transforming it from a struggling team into a powerhouse in Ukrainian football. Akhmetov highlights the club's patriotic stance, especially since the full-scale invasion began, and its efforts to represent Ukraine internationally. He also emphasizes the necessity of a unified and democratic Ukraine, with a focus on rebuilding and investment in various sectors. Despite challenges, he remains optimistic about the future of both Shakhtar and Ukraine, envisioning a return to their home in Donetsk and a thriving nation.
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The ongoing war has severely affected Shakhtar Donetsk and the broader Ukrainian economy, necessitating significant investment and support for recovery.
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