Polish Football Association leadership crisis

The Polish Football Association (PZPN) is experiencing significant internal turmoil involving its top leadership. The crisis was triggered by a controversy surrounding PZPN President Cezary Kulesza, who faced public criticism for swapping a child mascot during a Nations League match.

This incident coincided with a revolt within the association’s board. Eleven members, including four vice-presidents, signed a letter of no confidence against Secretary General Łukasz Wachowski following allegations that he made secret recordings of Kulesza and another official.

Despite this formal opposition, Kulesza has reportedly refused to remove Wachowski. The organization is also facing additional pressures, including a potential 7 million PLN VAT tax discrepancy currently under investigation by KPMG, the withdrawal of sponsors, and the national team’s failure to qualify for major tournaments. While statutes allow for the removal of the president before his term ends in 2029, such an action requires a two-thirds majority vote from delegates at a general assembly.