On Wednesday, FC Copenhagen issued a statement clarifying that the remarks made by major shareholder Lars Seier Christensen regarding Volodymyr Zelenskyy do not represent the club’s official stance.
Christensen, who holds 22.55 per cent of the shares in PARKEN Sport & Entertainment, the parent company of FC Copenhagen, faced significant backlash after his comments on Facebook followed a tense exchange between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in the Oval Office last Saturday.
In his post, Christensen labelled Zelenskyy as ‘incompetent, rude, and profoundly foolish,’ asserting that the Ukrainian leader exhibited ‘disrespectful’ behaviour during the Trump meeting.
Recognising the distraction this has caused, FC Copenhagen felt it necessary to respond, particularly as they prepare for crucial matches against Chelsea in the Round of 16 of the Champions League.
“FC Copenhagen maintains no official stance on American politics or numerous other matters. Our priority must be the upcoming football match,” stated Football Director Jacob Lauersen to TV2 Sport. “We are eager to face Chelsea, but the focus has shifted to social media statements instead.”
“While we acknowledge that Lars Seier Christensen is a significant shareholder, it is surprising how many people misconstrue the club’s position. What a shareholder expresses does not alter our values,” Lauersen asserted, adding that Christensen does not have a voice in FC Copenhagen’s decision-making, as he is neither a board member nor part of the executive team.
“I concur that we are dealing with a major shareholder, but the misunderstanding regarding the club’s position is perplexing,” Lauersen remarked.
FC Copenhagen is set to host Chelsea this Thursday evening at 18:45 CET at Parken Stadium.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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