Sepsi owner warns of financial instability as sponsors withdraw from Romanian football

Sepsi OSK owner Laszlo Dioszegi has warned that the club faces financial instability and requires new sponsors urgently. He stated that the team has secured funds for approximately one month, even though it continues to pay salaries and bonuses on time.

Dioszegi clarified that Sepsi had no financial debts as of the day before his interview. Despite this clean balance sheet, the club is actively seeking new investors to ensure its future operations.

The financial pressure stems from a broader trend of sponsors withdrawing from Sepsi and Hungarian football. This retreat is driven by economic uncertainty and rising costs in the region.

Funding sources from Hungary have been reduced or suspended, prompting the search for alternative investment. Hungarian financial support had previously played a key role in developing the club's infrastructure and academy,.

The situation reflects a wider issue in Romanian football, where betting houses are investing less than in previous years. This decline in sponsorship revenue affects many clubs across the league.

Dioszegi has maintained a strict policy regarding potential sponsors. He has refused partnerships with gambling and alcohol sectors, despite the potential revenue these industries could provide.

To bridge the funding gap, the owner supplements the club budget from his own personal resources. This additional support helps maintain operations while new partners are sought.

Player costs have risen since the club first entered the top flight. The current salary cap stands at 10,000 euros, which is an increase from the 4,000 to 5,000 euros range seen in earlier years.

Despite the cash flow concerns, Sepsi holds significant physical assets. The club owns a stadium valued at 30 million euros and three training grounds.