How Ukrainians Rally Behind Shakhtar Donetsk in London

Shakhtar Donetsk will play their Champions League home matches at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge this season. Although not an ideal setting, the Ukrainian community in the UK has embraced the situation, turning it into a uniting occasion.

From Donbas Arena to London Streets

Artem Genne remembers standing on the pitch at Donbas Arena in 2012, holding the Champions League flag as Shakhtar faced Chelsea. The conflict that began two years later forced many, including Genne, to leave Donetsk. Since then, the club has been displaced, playing in Kyiv, Lviv, Kharkiv, and across Europe in Poland, Slovenia, and Germany.

Now based in the West Midlands, Genne plans to attend all four Champions League games at Stamford Bridge, starting with the match against AEK Athens. He reflects on how the invasion uprooted many, hoping for a quick return home that never came.

"When I meet people from my home area of Ukraine abroad, it gives you a sense of home and hope. Knowing you're sharing the values and remembering different times is important. It sometimes brings a soft tear because those moments feel out of reach."

Genne appreciates the UK's support during difficult times, noting the warm reception when wearing a Shakhtar shirt—people clap and give high fives, without any hostility.

Supporters Keep the Spirit Alive

Dima Prasolov, who relocated from Donetsk to Kyiv and now lives in Kent, is thrilled to buy a four-game pass—the first season ticket opportunity he's had in 15 years. For him, following Shakhtar amid war is deeply emotional.

"Watching our team regularly has become nearly impossible since the invasion. The club means everything to me and my family."

The London venue offers a rare moment of normalcy amid ongoing turmoil.

Challenges Beyond the Pitch

Shakhtar’s chief executive, Sergei Palkin, explains how daily life remains difficult for players and staff. Their under-12 team had to relocate within Kyiv due to recent attacks, and a women’s match was disrupted by a drone strike nearby.

"Every time we step onto the pitch, it’s more than football. It’s about mental strength and family struggles. The hardest part is the constant uncertainty—waking up unsure what the day will bring."

Palkin sees these matches as a way to raise awareness about Ukraine’s situation across Europe.

Why Stamford Bridge?

The decision to host games in London sparked debate, mainly because many Ukrainians find UK visa rules tough. The £135 fee and long processing times make attending difficult for some fans still in Ukraine.

An anonymous fan said, "That money is a monthly income for some, and no one has time to wait months for a visa. We want to support the team but can’t because of these regulations."

Instead, fans gather in pubs nationwide, and support comes from beyond Shakhtar's usual base, emphasizing unity over rivalry.

Prasolov notes a strong Ukrainian presence in West London, where many live and are passionate about their country’s teams.

A Community United Through Football and Culture

Matches offer a chance to celebrate Ukrainian culture alongside football. Fundraisers for medical supplies and equipment back home are common at events.

Genne says, "There are always concerts and fundraisers. Even far away, we do what we can to help. These games give us another reason to unite and share something positive amid tough times."

Palkin highlights efforts to connect with Ukrainian children in London through school visits and training sessions, strengthening ties between the diaspora and homeland.

Raising Awareness and Pride

London hosts many of the roughly 265,000 Ukrainians who sought refuge in the UK. Shakhtar’s presence in the Champions League sends a message of resilience.

"Most news from Ukraine is negative now," Palkin says. "Seeing Ukraine represented at this level shows we are alive, fighting, working, living, and competing."

Amir, a fan who left Donetsk as a teenager, describes the club’s international success as a beacon of hope for Ukrainians everywhere.

"It reconnects us to our roots and reminds the world of Donetsk’s place in Ukraine."

Looking Ahead

The upcoming fixtures against AEK Athens, Real Madrid, Sporting, and Fenerbahce carry deep meaning. Genne feels even small victories or positive moments lift spirits and rekindle joy.

"Supporting the club is more than analyzing players or goals. It’s about community, joy, and remembering the simple happiness football brings."