In a historic shift for RTS Widzew Łódź, Robert Dobrzycki has officially become the majority owner of the club, acquiring 76.06% of its shares. This momentous change was announced on March 28, 2025, marking a new era for the storied Polish football club. Dobrzycki, who is the president and co-owner of the international real estate development firm Panattoni, has big plans for the club, aiming to create a financially stable and competitive team not only in Poland but also on the European stage.
"From today, RTS Widzew Łódź has a new ownership structure," Dobrzycki triumphantly declared on social media platform X. The investment agreement was finalized after months of negotiations with Tomasz Stamirowski, who retains a significant stake of 20.05% in the club, while nearly 4% will remain with the supporters' association. This new ownership structure gives Dobrzycki full operational decision-making power, which is expected to accelerate the club's ambitions.
The agreement aims to establish a solid financial, infrastructural, and organizational foundation for Widzew, ensuring its long-term viability and enhancing its prospects for competing in European competitions. Dobrzycki's investment plans are ambitious, with reports suggesting he will allocate tens of millions of złotych to the club, including an initial €4 million earmarked for transfers in the upcoming summer transfer window.
In addition to strengthening the squad, Dobrzycki's plans also include significant investments in the club's academy and the expansion of the stadium, potentially adding 10,000 seats to accommodate the growing fanbase. The club's supporters, who have eagerly awaited this change, are hopeful that these developments will lead to a return to the top tier of Polish football, aiming for a podium finish in the PKO Bank Polski Ekstraklasa.
As part of the restructuring, Mindaugas Nikolicius has been appointed as the new sporting director, while Zeljko Sopić takes over as head coach. They will work closely with Igor Cerina, who replaces Wojciech Śmiech as the head of scouting. The new management is expected to bring a fresh perspective and a winning mentality to the club.
"I thank Tomasz and the supporters for everything they have done for Widzew. I look forward to a fruitful collaboration," Dobrzycki expressed, emphasizing his commitment to building a successful future for the club.
The financial implications of Dobrzycki's acquisition are substantial. The investment is not only aimed at immediate improvements but also at creating a sustainable model for the club's future. This includes repaying existing debts and enhancing the club's infrastructure. With such a financial boost, Widzew is set to become a formidable force in Polish football.
Fans have reacted positively to the news, with many expressing hope that the new ownership will lead to a competitive team capable of challenging for top honors in the league. The excitement is palpable as supporters anticipate the upcoming transfer window and the potential signings that could bolster the squad.
In the wake of this transition, Widzew Łódź is poised to make significant strides in the Polish football scene. The new management’s vision aligns with the aspirations of the club’s loyal fanbase, who have longed for a return to glory. With a solid financial backing and a clear strategy in place, the future looks bright for Widzew.
As the club embarks on this new journey, all eyes will be on Dobrzycki and his team to see how they navigate the challenges ahead. The investment in Widzew is not just about football; it’s about building a legacy that can inspire future generations of players and fans alike. With the right moves, Widzew could soon find itself back in contention for the highest honors in Polish football.
In conclusion, the dawn of a new era at Widzew Łódź is here, and with it comes a wave of optimism and ambition. The club is ready to rise again, and the upcoming months will be crucial in determining its path forward.
