Rinat Akhmetov, Ukraine's wealthiest individual and the owner of Shakhtar Donetsk, has granted a rare interview, discussing his journey from a poverty-stricken childhood in Donbas to becoming one of Eastern Europe's most influential businessmen. He spoke to the Guardian in Kyiv, a day after Russia's heaviest aerial attack on the city in months, which killed at least 25 people.
Shakhtar's Role as an Ambassador
Akhmetov emphasized the club's patriotic stance, noting that Shakhtar has always been pro-Ukrainian. He recalled how in 2007, the club's emblem was changed from the Russian 'Shakhtyor' to the Ukrainian 'Shakhtar' based on fan input. 'We are an ambassador to the world that Shakhtar is a Ukrainian club and that we are fighting for independence, freedom and sovereignty,' he said.
From Childhood Dreams to Club President
Growing up in Donetsk, Akhmetov dreamed of becoming a footballer but lacked the means to attend matches. He promised his mother he would earn money to support her. After the tragic death of his predecessor Akhat Bragin in a stadium explosion in 1995, Akhmetov became president in 1996 at age 30. He inherited a club with no stadium, training facility, or transport, and players earning $200-$300 a month. Despite mockery, he declared his goal to win the championship, a feat achieved in 2002 under foreign coach Nevio Scala.
Building a Business Empire
Akhmetov described the post-Soviet economic collapse, with 10,000% annual inflation, as a time of survival. He started trading coke and coal, then acquired minority stakes in metallurgy plants. 'When you see this low-profile enterprise you need to buy it, invest, then find and motivate people to create a product that can trade globally,' he explained, drawing parallels to football management.
Foreign Influence and Success
He broke Dynamo Kyiv's dominance by hiring foreign coaches and players. 'For me a patriot does not have to be born or raised in Ukraine, but someone who works for Ukraine's benefit,' he said. Scala won the first title in 2002, and Mircea Lucescu led the team to a Uefa Cup victory in 2009. Akhmetov described his emotional bond with Lucescu, with whom he won 22 trophies over 12 years.
Donbas Arena and the Occupation
Since 2014, Shakhtar has been exiled from Donetsk. Akhmetov vowed not to attend matches until the club returns to Donbas Arena, but broke that promise for a Conference League quarter-final after Lucescu's death. He described the stadium's condition under occupation as 'miserable,' with the region suffering from unemployment and lack of basic services. He reiterated his message to occupiers: 'You're good for nothing, you're terrorists.'
Azovstal and Mariupol
Akhmetov visited Mariupol just before the full-scale invasion. Azovstal steelworks became the city's last stronghold. He spoke of commander Denys Prokopenko, who refused personal privilege and asked only for care of his men. Akhmetov launched the 'Heart of Azovstal' project to support defenders and their families.
Relations with Zelenskyy and War Outlook
Akhmetov praised President Zelenskyy for staying in Kyiv during the invasion, calling him 'a courageous man of strong character.' He acknowledged past disagreements over oligarch controls but said their relations have been cooperative since the war. He outlined three peace scenarios: just peace (1991 borders with reparations), durable peace (EU membership), and fake peace (Russian-imposed). He believes Russia's war is futile, as 'Putin has no reason to continue it.'
Criticism of FIFA
Akhmetov criticized FIFA President Gianni Infantino for not visiting Ukraine, suggesting that experiencing missile attacks would change his perspective. He praised UEFA's Aleksander Ceferin but called for more support from football's governing bodies.
Future Vision
Looking ahead to Shakhtar's centenary, Akhmetov envisions playing in a Ukrainian Donetsk, with Champions League music and the national anthem. 'Ukraine will stand strong, become a member of the EU and its citizens will live in a free, European and thriving democratic country,' he said, expressing optimism for the future.
