Lukas Podolski’s LP Holding GmbH Acquires 8.3% Stake in Górnik Zabrze.

Roger Hampel

Image: Górnik Zabrze

Górnik Zabrze has confirmed that LP Holding GmbH, owned by former Germany international and long-time club ambassador Lukas Podolski, has acquired a stake in the club as part of an ongoing privatisation process led by the City of Zabrze. The transaction marks a formal shift in the club’s ownership structure and positions Podolski as the second-largest shareholder.

According to the announcement, LP Holding GmbH purchased 104,611 registered shares from Allianz Polska Services Sp. z o.o., representing approximately 8.3% of the club’s share capital. While the City of Zabrze remains the majority shareholder, Podolski’s entry into the ownership group is viewed as the first formal step toward a potential transfer of operational control, subject to future stages of the privatisation process.

A Strategic Move by a Long-Term Supporter Lukas Podolski

Podolski, Górnik's player since 2020, has repeatedly expressed his intention to support Górnik Zabrze beyond his on-field contributions and commercial involvement. His acquisition of shares formalises that role and reinforces his long-standing ties to the club and the region.

In a statement, Podolski emphasised his commitment to contributing to the club’s long-term development across sporting, organisational and commercial dimensions. His involvement signals a shift from symbolic support to structural participation in governance and future strategic planning.

Privatisation of Górnik Zabrze: Context and Implications

The City of Zabrze, as the majority shareholder, continues to oversee the privatisation process. The entry of LP Holding GmbH represents the first material change in the shareholding landscape during this phase. While the specifics of the privatisation timeline and potential investor structures remain open, the transaction underscores the municipality’s intent to gradually transition the club toward a more diversified ownership model.

For Górnik, attracting private capital is key to improving financial stability, modernising operational structures and supporting competitive performance within the Ekstraklasa. Podolski’s involvement could also support wider commercial initiatives, brand visibility and strategic partnerships, given his international profile and entrepreneurial activities in sport and entertainment.

Commercial Activation Linked to the Ownership Announcement

To coincide with the development, the club launched a short-term ticketing promotion for the spring round. Supporters purchasing season passes were offered an 8.3% discount, reflecting the size of Podolski’s new shareholding, via the code “LP10”. The campaign serves both as a symbolic gesture and as a tactical revenue initiative at a time when Polish clubs increasingly seek to stabilise matchday income through advanced ticketing sales.