Introduction to Krasava Ezy Ypsonas Football Club
Yevgeny Savin, the President of the Krasava Ezy Ypsonas Football Club, expressed his joy and pride in the team’s debut in Cyprus’s top league. Despite losing 2-1 to Apoel Nicosia, Savin considered it a success, stating that they built a team that can compete with the most successful club in Cyprus.
From Professional Footballer to YouTube Star
Savin was a professional footballer in the 2000s, appointed to the U21 team of Russia several times. After his career as a player, he became a media star, hosting a show on Sports Channel Match TV. In 2018, he founded the YouTube channel "Krasava," where he discussed Russia’s problems from a football perspective. The channel gained popularity, with Savin earning up to 1.2 million euros a year from sponsoring deals.
The Birth of Krasava Football Club
Savin founded the Krasava football club in 2021, initially participating in the third division of Russian football. However, after the invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, Savin left Russia with his family and condemned the war. As a result, Krasava was banned from training in a stadium in the Moscow region, and Savin was accused of "discrediting" the Russian army.
Starting Over in Cyprus
Savin chose Cyprus as his exile destination due to its relatively low cost of running a professional football club. He bought a local club license for several hundred thousand euros and established a new team, keeping the same colors, emblem, and principles as the original Russian club. With an investment of around 1.5 million euros, the team won the campaign in the first division after only three seasons.
A New Life in Cyprus
Savin’s life in Cyprus is not without its challenges, particularly being separated from his sick father, who still lives in Russia and cannot travel. Despite this, Savin remains committed to his club and its community. He welcomes visitors to the training facility, which consists of two small artificial lawn places and a 20 square meter room that serves as an office.
Russians and Ukrainians United
Krasava aims to bring together immigrants from post-Soviet countries as a fan base. Ninety percent of the fans speak Russian, and the club combines people from Belarus, Ukraine, Russia, and other countries in the stands. Savin emphasizes that Krasava is more than just a football club; it is a family.
Giving Back to the Community
The club offers free weekly training courses for children who receive support in the Yasam Special Therapy Center in Limassol. These children come from Russian and Ukrainian-speaking families and have only been on the island for several years. Savin’s contributions to the Russian-speaking community have created a sense of belonging and unity among the fans.
Looking to the Future
Savin continues to dream big, aiming to qualify for European club competitions. He believes that the Krasava football club’s history is inspiring, and he wants the world to learn about it. With his passion and dedication, Savin is determined to take the club to new heights.
