Sports Mediation Center
THE CHALLENGEWhat Was
The Issue
The crux of the dispute was a long-standing conflict between the community around the football club Arka Gdynia and its majority shareholder. Fans refrained from cheering, and the city authorities watched the situation with concern. Due to the conflict, the club had been unable to count on support from the local government for some time, and private sponsors began to withdraw.
The reason for the conflict was differing visions for running the club, which led to a serious organizational crisis.
THE SOLUTION
Mediation as an
Effective Tool
When it appeared all hope for reconciliation was lost, a series of negotiations were initiated involving key stakeholders—club owners, sponsors, city officials, and representatives of the fans, all facilitated by a Mediator. A preliminary agreement reached in these discussions laid the groundwork for further negotiation, eventually leading to a harmonization of the conflicting interests and visions, including a pivotal decision to change the majority shareholding.
This breakthrough allowed for the re-engagement of fans and sponsors with the club, bolstered by renewed support from the local government.
THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT
Client's Perspective
Marcin Gruchała, the new majority shareholder of Arka Gdynia
I am extremely impressed by the work, calm, and effectiveness of the Mediator. She did what seemed impossible. She helped us reconcile and heal the situation in the Club.
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in a Sports Dispute?
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