Spartak and CSKA through a veteran lens: fans, history, and the game

Vladimir Ponomarev, a former football player who defended the colors of Moscow CSKA and represented the USSR national team, offered a pointed assessment of Spartak Moscow’s identity as a people’s team. He spoke from decades of experience in a veteran’s view, noting how certain clubs acquire a distinct social aura that goes beyond on-field results. In his estimation, Spartak’s appeal was built on a mix of regional pride, community rituals, and a sense of belonging that resonated with fans across different walks of life. Yet, he questioned the depth of that connection, implying that popularity can sometimes be attributed to factors outside the pitch rather than to consistent performance or organization. His reflections suggest that the branding of a club as the people’s team involves perception as much as achievement, and that such perception can shift depending on era, leadership, and the everyday experiences of supporters. He paused to consider the wider ecosystem of sports culture and how a club’s image is shaped by shops, markets, and everyday spaces where fans gather and discuss the game.