The President of the Polish Football Association (PZPN), Cezary Kulesza, expressed outrage over a provocative banner displayed by Omonia Nicosia fans during a UEFA Europa Conference League match against Legia Warsaw. The banner falsely claimed that the Red Army "liberated Warsaw" on January 17, 1945. Additionally, other banners featured images of Joseph Stalin and Soviet symbols such as the hammer and sickle.
Kulesza condemned the incident on social media, calling on UEFA to impose strict consequences. He stated: "I am appalled by the scandalous behavior of Omonia Nicosia fans. I appeal to our partners at UEFA to take firm action against those responsible for this provocation targeting our country. I strongly protest against falsifying history and insulting Poles."
Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski has announced plans to send a letter to the management of Omonia Nicosia, a Cypriot football club, in response to the controversial banners.
Trzaskowski strongly condemned the incident, labeling it as unacceptable, particularly given the current context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the ongoing loss of civilian lives. He emphasized that such actions constitute historical distortion and called for decisive responses not only from the club but also from municipal and potentially national authorities.
"It is absolutely outrageous to falsify history at a time when Russians are attacking Ukraine and tens of thousands of civilians are dying. There should be a clear declaration from everyone—not just the club's authorities but also the city's and perhaps state authorities as well."
Poland's Minister of Sports, Sławomir Nitras, similarly condemned the incident, describing it as offensive to Poles and a clear provocation. He called for diplomatic action, suggesting that the Polish ambassador to Cyprus intervene.
Nitras remarked: "Warsaw was not liberated by the Red Army but subjugated. This is undoubtedly a reason for diplomatic and decisive UEFA actions."
The Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) issued a statement expressing regret over the lack of historical awareness among Omonia Nicosia fans.
The IPN announced plans to distribute translated educational materials to Cyprus regarding the Soviet actions in Poland during and after World War II.
Meanwhile, on the field, Legia Warsaw secured a decisive 3–0 victory over Omonia Nicosia. The team is performing strongly in the tournament, maintaining a second-place position in their group behind Chelsea FC.
Źródło: TVN24 News in English, PAP
Źródło zdjęcia głównego: Newspix