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Alexander ChebotarevGeneral Director of Lada
Date of Birth: 25.03.1979
Country:  Russia |
Content:
- Current Financial Situation and Challenges
- Uncertain Future
- Player Exodus and Legal Battles
- Relocation: A Double-Edged Sword
- Preserving Hockey in Togliatti
- Additional Financial Sources
- Economic Impact of the Crisis
- Social Impact and Safety Concerns
- Personal Perspective
Current Financial Situation and Challenges
General Director of Lada Hockey ClubAlexander Chebotarev, General Director of Lada Hockey Club, openly discusses the dire financial situation facing his team in an interview with Sports.ru. He explains why the club is no longer receiving cars from the automaker VAZ and advises players on the risks associated with restaurants. He also dispels the myth that relocation could solve the team's problems.
Uncertain Future
Chebotarev states that Lada will complete the current season but expresses uncertainty about the team's future. He identifies financing and the lack of a proper arena as the major challenges facing the club. He acknowledges that the construction of a new arena in Togliatti has been suspended.
Player Exodus and Legal Battles
Chebotarev reveals that some players have already left the team, and he anticipates further departures due to unpaid salaries and potential lawsuits. He suggests that the team may not have the same roster next season.
Relocation: A Double-Edged Sword
Chebotarev acknowledges that some consider relocation as a possible solution to Lada's financial woes. However, he emphasizes that it would effectively end hockey in Togliatti. New owners would control the team's structure and finances, and there would no longer be the same level of local support.
Preserving Hockey in Togliatti
Despite the challenges, Chebotarev expresses his belief that high-level hockey can remain in Togliatti. He argues that while people may initially accept the loss of the team, the cost of rebuilding a hockey infrastructure from scratch would be substantial.
Additional Financial Sources
Chebotarev reveals that additional organizations have previously provided funding to Lada, but they are now reluctant to do so. He insists that there are companies willing to fully support the team if they are granted tax breaks.
Economic Impact of the Crisis
Chebotarev describes the severe economic impact of the crisis on Togliatti. Restaurants and entertainment venues are closing due to a lack of patronage. Unemployment is rising, and the average salary at VAZ has plummeted to 7,000 rubles.
Social Impact and Safety Concerns
Chebotarev acknowledges that the financial crisis has caused significant social tension in Togliatti. He understands the resentment towards the hockey team, but he argues that eliminating it would not improve the situation. He also advises players to avoid certain restaurants and public places for their safety.
Personal Perspective
As a resident of Togliatti since 1992, Chebotarev compares the current situation to the turbulent mid-1990s. While he admits to feeling uneasy, he believes the city has faced worse times in the past. Nonetheless, he recognizes the palpable anxiety and depression prevalent in the community during these challenging times.
