For the first time since stepping down as president of APOEL FC, Prodromos Petrides has issued a written statement outlining the reasons behind his departure.
He maintains that the proposal submitted by a second group of Brazilian investors for a strategic investment represented the only realistic solution for the club under current financial conditions.
His statement
“With a sense of responsibility and full awareness of the critical nature of the moment, I decided to step down from the presidency of APOEL Football Ltd.
The proposal recently placed before us by the second group of Brazilian investors for a strategic investment constituted, in my clear and consistent position, the only realistic solution under the present economic circumstances. There had been previous proposals from other interested parties, but none demonstrated that they met the necessary prerequisites or certified funding. Nevertheless, the rejection of the latest proposal by specific circles and individuals, who alone know their reasons, as well as the climate created around the issue, left me with no alternative.
Faced with the risk of destabilisation and deepening division, I had to assume responsibility. A president is not measured by how long he holds the chair, but by whether he protects the team when its stability is at stake. If my departure contributes to easing tensions and safeguarding unity, then it is the right decision.
We now await the solutions that will be proposed. APOEL cannot endure further deadlocks. Immediate action and clear answers are required, especially from those who chose to speak, officially or unofficially, in recent days. They too will be judged on their validity and credibility. Personally, I remain firmly of the view that, given the current data, the rejected proposal was the only viable way forward.
No one is infallible and no one is irreplaceable. Thirteen years in the presidency brought both historic highs and difficult trials. When you hold the wheel, you hold responsibility, and I never avoided it.
I must sincerely thank my vice-presidents on the Board of Directors, Nikos Kougialis and Charis Fotiou, as well as the other board members, for their continuous moral and financial support. I also express my appreciation to those who stood by me and the team throughout my tenure, particularly in recent years.
I thank the administrative staff who have served and continue to serve the company. Without diminishing anyone’s contribution, I publicly thank Efthymios Agathokleous, Giorgos Savvidis and Antigoni Lamprou. Warm thanks also go to the players, coaches and technical staff with whom we had the honour of serving APOEL.
I am aware that today’s statement may trigger further commentary and attacks, from named individuals and from others hiding behind online anonymity. My conscience is clear. I acted based on what I believed would safeguard the future of the team, often at personal and family cost. If some question my love for APOEL, that is their right. The sacrifices made over the years are known to me, my close associates and my family. I wronged my family, and that weighs heavily on me.
To the supporters of APOEL, I send a clear message: remain by the team’s side. Continue to be demanding. It is your right and your obligation.
To the new president, I wish strength and patience. He assumes a difficult task and faces serious challenges ahead. He needs practical support, not just words.
We all pass through positions and offices. What remains is history, dignity and the heavy jersey of APOEL.
Strength to all.
All together, alongside APOEL.”