Ownership and management functions have been separated at FC Locomotive — Shota Arveladze will be one of the club’s board members

There are significant updates at FC Locomotive ahead of the second half of the 2025 season.

The roles of ownership and management within the club have been separated. Giorgi Kipiani has been appointed as the new club president. A board has been established, which will be responsible for the club’s strategic development and will work on several key areas, including:

Attracting investments

Systematic development of the club

Improving the academy’s operations

Building and strengthening the fanbase

One of the most notable updates is that Shota Arveladze — a legend of Georgian football — will be among the board members. With his vast experience, he will play an active role in the club’s comprehensive development process.

A press conference regarding these changes was held on June 18 at the Stamba Hotel, where journalists were briefed by Lekso Topuria, Giorgi Kipiani, and Shota Arveladze.

Lekso Topuria:
"Next year, FC Locomotive will celebrate its 90th anniversary. I’ve been the president of this club for 20 years, and I believe it’s time for change. We’re pleased that Shota Arveladze is joining our board — he needs no introduction. I’m also glad that Giorgi Kipiani has accepted this new challenge and is becoming the club’s president. He’s been with Loco for ten years and has gained significant experience.

I will remain involved at the supervisory board level. I’ll be one of the board members and, of course, I will continue to finance the team."

Giorgi Kipiani:
"I’ve worked at this club for ten years. With this new status, I see everything from a new perspective. I thank Lekso Topuria for his decision and trust. Under the new board, there are several areas we need to improve — attracting investment, developing the academy, achieving better sports results, and increasing the fan base. I believe, with this team and management structure, we can successfully achieve our goals."

Shota Arveladze:
"Even during the most difficult times, Lekso Topuria remained actively involved in Georgian football and never stopped investing in the club — that’s no small feat, and he deserves great appreciation for it.

The separation of governance and management was his decision. This club has great potential, and the board was created to make the most of all its opportunities. The management has been restructured to allow everyone to contribute their maximum.

I’ll bring my experience to every new challenge that supports the club’s development. I’ll try to make a meaningful contribution. One of my goals is to engage various groups and attract new partners.

We want to create a strong and inspiring model that will benefit Georgian football. My involvement with Locomotive will not interfere with my coaching career — I will stay actively involved with the club from wherever I am," said Shota Arveladze.