According to Sport-Express, Lukoil plans to extend its investment in Spartak Moscow by advancing the club’s infrastructure, with the Fyodor Cherenkov Academy slated to relocate from Sokolniki to the Tushino area.
Fedun’s appeal to supporters was published on the club’s site and summarized the red-and-white leadership’s stance, noting that a competitive team had been left behind for the future.
“This marks the end of a remarkable era. When I first faced Spartak in 1972, I could hardly imagine guiding this people’s team for eighteen years. Yet, sometimes dreams do come true.”
“These years delivered extraordinary triumphs and painful setbacks. The joy of victory lived alongside the sting of disappointment. New partners were brought in, and some names may be recalled with less fondness. That is life. That is football.”
“I am leaving a young, ambitious squad under a capable coach and a highly professional management team. And, of course, an outstanding stadium. I believe they can achieve more victories together.”
“I will continue to be a loyal fan of my favorite red and white team, Spartak. To new titles! Go red and white.” Fedun’s farewell message concluded.
Former Spartak player and coach Valery Gladilin spoke to socialbites.ca, expressing gratitude for Fedun’s leadership as both manager and sponsor.
“He did a lot for Spartak. He managed well and supported the club financially,” Gladilin said. “Spartak remains under Lukoil’s ownership, and Fedun continues in his role. The club must preserve its foundation, and Fedun still has responsibilities. It seems the time for a leadership change has arrived.”
Rinat Bilyaletdinov, Rubin’s former mentor, did not see Fedun’s departure as a threat to Spartak.
“Another leader will be appointed. As Lukoil funds the team, it will continue financing. Fedun departs, and others step forward. There may be changes, and the way resources are allocated will depend on the parent company. Time will tell,” Bilyaletdinov remarked.
Raul Riancho, who previously coached Spartak, praised Fedun for his respectful treatment of staff and his supportive leadership.
“When he met the squad, he was approachable. He must have personal reasons. It is the president who enables the work. I never witnessed him pressuring coaches in the locker room. We should respect this step by Leonid Arnoldovich,” Riancho commented.
Meanwhile, Evgeny Lovchev, a Spartak legend, welcomed the news of Fedun’s departure while acknowledging ongoing tensions. He and his partner had previously urged Lukoil to address concerns about the club’s governance.
Lovchev stressed that Spartak’s finances had been secured by the new investment and credited the company with stabilizing the club at a critical moment. He recalled past challenges faced by rival teams and noted that Spartak’s visibility had always been strong, even when the club’s standing seemed fragile.
Andrey Chervichenko, a former head of Spartak, offered a different perspective, suggesting that a lasting tribute could be created for Fedun while acknowledging that monuments to living individuals are uncommon. He proposed options ranging from a commemorative stele to architectural features that celebrate the stadium’s creator.
Chervichenko also emphasized the importance of thanking the people who contributed to Spartak’s progress, arguing that the stadium and base deserved memorial recognition for the work done. He cited the broader football world and the need to honor meaningful achievements.
Media outlets noted three candidates who emerged as potential candidates for Spartak’s presidency—Evgeny Khavkin, Alexander Matytsyn, and Ashot Khachaturyants. Rumors had circulated about Khachaturyants since mid-year. There was chatter about other figures who might join the board, including Elena Vyalbe, a high-profile sports administrator, though no formal inquiry had taken place at that time.
The club’s leadership transition was anticipated to be formalized in August. Since acquiring Spartak Moscow in 2004, Fedun helped steer the club to national titles and domestic cups. The team also claimed a strong European run, reaching the Europa League quarterfinals in the 2010/11 season. Under his tenure, Spartak secured its own stadium, the Otkritie Arena, in Tushino in 2014.