Pafos FC owner Roman Dubov has revealed he rejected a multimillion euro proposal to sell the club, stating that his work in Cyprus is far from done. In an exclusive interview with Economy Today, Dubov outlined his long-term commitment to developing not just a successful football team, but a lasting institution rooted in professionalism, community values, and sustainable growth.
“I didn’t come here to celebrate a trophy and leave,” Dubov said. “We came to stay- and to build something that will endure.”
Dubov, who has previous experience in British football, described his initial investment in Pafos FC as a response to the city’s unique potential. “One city, one club, and a loyal community with no real football rivals; what more could you ask for?” he said. His goal, he explained, was never just sporting success, but institutional transformation. “We wanted to create a modern football organisation that others look at and say, ‘They’re doing it right.’”
Since taking over, the Pafos FC owner has overhauled the club’s infrastructure, introducing data-driven performance metrics, improved training facilities, and a strong academy structure. Drawing on lessons from English football, Dubov emphasised the importance of structure, professionalism, and long-term KPIs. “We said from day one—whatever the big clubs like United or Chelsea have, we should have too. Maybe on a smaller scale, but never with less quality.”
That strategy paid off. After stabilising finances and fostering community trust, Pafos FC won the Cyprus Cup and has since gone on to secure the league title—a milestone that Dubov sees not as an endpoint but as a foundation. “Winning the cup was important, but it was just a sign we’re on the right path. The real goal is to become a stable presence at the top, and to represent Cyprus in Europe.”
The club’s culture, Dubov stressed, is one of accountability and ambition. “Everyone, from the chef to the CEO, knows exactly what is expected. That’s how real organisations work. Our culture is built around responsibility and purpose.”
Despite receiving a serious buyout offer- one he described as “strong”- Dubov declined, stating the journey is not yet complete. “We’ve only just begun. The value we can create, for both the city and Cypriot football, is far greater in the long term.”
Dubov also spoke at length about his broader business ambitions in Cyprus. “Football is our entry point, but we see Cyprus as a long-term ecosystem. We’re exploring investments in education, real estate, hospitality, and technology. Already, we work with over 200 local businesses.”
At the centre of it all is the ambition to build a permanent home for the club. The proposed new stadium is still in the planning phase, with feasibility studies and architectural designs ready, but Dubov admits progress is slow. “These projects take time- permits, politics, bureaucracy. But we’re committed. It won’t just be a stadium, it’ll be a year-round space for the community.”
Dubov also expressed frustration with the pace of development in Cypriot football regulation. “The clubs are becoming more professional, but the system hasn’t caught up yet. We need better youth investment, better coaches, and modern facilities. Football is the island’s biggest sport, it should be treated as such.”
Still, he praised Cyprus as a business destination. “It’s well-placed geographically, with EU access, favourable taxes, legal clarity, and a great quality of life. If the country makes the right digital and infrastructure upgrades, it could leap forward economically and culturally.”
As for his vision for Pafos FC, Dubov remains resolute: “We’re not here to build a moment. We’re here to build a legacy.”
Also read: Pafos FC are the Champions of Cyprus
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