The historic Genoa Cricket and Football Club has officially changed ownership, with Romanian entrepreneur Dan Sucu acquiring the majority stake, marking significant changes for the club known as the oldest football club in Italy. Sucu's acquisition of 77% of the club promises not just financial stability, but also ambitions to strengthen youth development and international collaborations.
On December 18, 2024, the acquisition was formally announced after Genoa’s Board of Directors approved the increase of capital amounting to €45,356,262. This move followed the turbulent tenure under previous owners, 777 Partners, whose struggles led to calls for new leadership. Dan Sucu, already recognized as the founder of Mobexpert, Romania's largest furniture brand, stepped up to the plate, presenting himself as the new face of Genoa.
Speaking on his new role, Sucu expressed his commitment by stating, "It is an honor and great responsibility to become the shareholder of Genoa CFC. Managing a football club means not limiting oneself to business aspects alone. It requires genuine passion for this sport and commitment to the community of fans who live for these colors." Sucu’s words reflect not only his vision for the club’s future but also his recognition of the community support integral to its success.
With this acquisition, Dan Sucu aims to implement changes and improvements, not just economically but also on the field. He noted the need for collaborations with clubs from Eastern Europe, particularly with Rapid Bucharest, where he already serves as the major shareholder with 90% ownership. He shared his enthusiasm about this collaboration, promising to see young Italian players beginning their careers at clubs across Eastern Europe, thereby creating pathways for talent development.
Sucu, who was born on April 25, 1963, has made his mark beyond the furniture industry. He has held influential roles within Romania’s business sector and serves as the president of the Confederatia Patronala Concordia, similar to Confindustria’s role in Italy. His diverse investments also span the media sector, underscoring his multifaceted expertise.
"The most important results are achieved through teamwork at every level. This makes me understand the importance of involving fans in the life of the club and how important it is for them to see sporting results meet expectations," he remarked, emphasizing his intention to integrate fan engagement as part of Genoa's operational strategy.
The future of Genoa CFC appears geared for rejuvenation under Sucu’s leadership. His approach includes developing modern facilities, investing in sports infrastructure, and committing resources to nurture young talent—both Italian and Romanian. He believes these efforts will not only raise the club's profile but also contribute to the welfare of the surrounding communities.
Reflecting on his long-term vision, Sucu indicated excitement about working closely with young professionals within the club, stating, "Even if I am over 60, I believe I can contribute, with my experience and energy, to achieving great goals together." This statement reinforces the sense of unity he wishes to instill among staff and supporters alike.
With Dan Sucu at the helm, Genoa CFC embarks on what may be considered the dawn of a new era. His commitment to sports as social instruments extends beyond mere financial investments; it highlights the potential of football as a force for community engagement and development. Fans and stakeholders are eager to see how this transition will evolve, with overwhelming hope for resurgence within Italy's competitive football scene.
Looking forward, Genoa is set to pursue ambitious goals, and under Sucu’s leadership, the aim is not just to achieve sporting success, but to cultivate relationships built on passion, teamwork, and ambitions reflective of the club's storied history. The passionate Genoa fans may soon witness their club being sculpted by someone who resonates with their sports-loving spirit.
