Shakhtar Donetsk owner and president Rinat Akhmetov has pledged to donate £20 million from the £89 million transfer fee of Mykhaylo Mudryk to Chelsea to support Ukrainian soldiers and their families in the ongoing war against Russia. Announced on January 16, 2023, this significant contribution marks the launch of the Heart of Azovstal project, aimed at aiding Mariupol defenders and honoring their “unparalleled bravery.” Akhmetov’s gesture underscores his commitment to Ukraine’s resilience amid the conflict that has displaced Shakhtar from their Donetsk home since 2014.
A Landmark Donation for Ukraine
Akhmetov, Ukraine’s richest businessman according to Forbes, revealed that the £20 million ($25 million, UAH 1 billion) will fund medical care, prosthetic treatments, psychological support, and specific requests for soldiers, defenders, and their families. “To ensure transparency, the project will have a professional independent team,” he stated, emphasizing accountability in collaboration with Azovstal defenders, their families, care providers, and volunteers. The donation, drawn from Mudryk’s transfer fee, reflects Akhmetov’s broader efforts to support Ukraine, with his foundation and businesses contributing over $315 million to humanitarian aid since 2014.
The transfer of 22-year-old winger Mykhaylo Mudryk to Chelsea, finalized on January 15, 2023, for an initial €70 million (£62 million) with €30 million (£26.5 million) in potential add-ons, marked a record-breaking deal for a Ukrainian club. Chelsea outbid Arsenal, who made three offers, to secure Mudryk on an eight-and-a-half-year contract, unveiled at Stamford Bridge during a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.
Akhmetov’s Mixed Emotions
Akhmetov expressed pride in Mudryk’s achievement, stating, “He has shown that talent and hard work can make the impossible possible.” He believes Mudryk will “shine at Chelsea and across Europe,” showcasing Ukrainian talent on a global stage. However, he lamented the necessity of the transfer, driven by the “unjust war” waged by Russia, which has made it “impossible” for Ukrainian clubs to retain stars like Mudryk. “My dream is to win European trophies,” Akhmetov said, envisioning players of Mudryk’s caliber competing for Shakhtar in European competitions.
Displaced from Donbass Arena since 2014 due to conflict, Shakhtar has faced significant challenges, including a 2022 Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling that cost the club over £35 million in transfer revenue. Akhmetov’s donation, therefore, not only aids the war effort but also highlights the financial and emotional toll on Ukrainian football.
A Vision for Unity and Recovery
Akhmetov expressed hope for a future where Mudryk returns with Chelsea for a friendly match at a rebuilt Donbass Arena in a “Ukrainian Donetsk.” “We must do everything we can to bring this day closer,” he urged, emphasizing gratitude to Ukraine’s soldiers. The Heart of Azovstal project aims to honor Mariupol’s defenders, whose sacrifices in 2022 were pivotal in resisting Russian forces.
In Nigeria, grappling with 52.2% inflation and a naira at ₦450 to the US dollar in January 2023, Akhmetov’s act of solidarity resonates as a call for hope and resilience. His commitment to using football’s platform to support Ukraine’s fight underscores the sport’s power to inspire amid adversity.
Looking Ahead
The £20 million donation, coupled with plans for a future Chelsea-Shakhtar friendly, reflects Akhmetov’s dual focus on immediate aid and long-term recovery. As Mudryk begins his Premier League journey, his transfer fee’s impact will extend beyond the pitch, supporting Ukraine’s heroes and fostering hope for a peaceful future.
