Football is a beloved sport in Poland, with a rich history and a strong presence in the country. Over 400,000 people regularly play football in Poland, with hundreds of professional and amateur teams under the auspices of the national 1st league, 2nd level, 3rd level, 4 parallel divisions of 4th level, 20 regional parallel divisions of 5th level and a variety of other lower-level leagues. Football is by far the most popular sport in Poland, with the national team having a reasonable track record in both global and European competitions.
Poland has a long history of football, with the first recorded match taking place in 1894. Since then, the sport has grown in popularity, with Poland hosting the UEFA Euro 2012 tournament alongside Ukraine. The tournament was a huge success, with Poland’s national team reaching the quarter-finals. Football is deeply ingrained in Polish culture, with many fans passionately supporting their local teams and the national team. The Polish Cup and Polish Supercup competitions are also popular, with fans eagerly following the matches and supporting their favourite teams.
For those interested in football in Poland, there are many resources available to help them learn more about the sport. From histories of the national team to guides to local teams and leagues, there is something for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned football fan or a newcomer to the sport, Poland’s football scene has much to offer.
History of Football in Poland
Football has a long and rich history in Poland, dating back to the late 19th century when the sport began to gain popularity. The first recorded football match in Poland took place in 1888, and by the early 1900s, football clubs were being formed throughout the country.
During the interwar period, football in Poland continued to grow, and the country’s national team played its first international match in 1921 against Hungary. Despite the challenges posed by the country’s partitioned state, football remained a popular sport among Poles, and by the 1930s, the Polish national team had become a formidable force in European football.
However, the outbreak of World War II and the subsequent occupation of Poland by Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union had a devastating impact on football in the country. Many football clubs were disbanded, and many players and fans lost their lives during the war.
After the war, football in Poland slowly began to recover, and the country’s national team achieved its greatest success in 1974 when it finished third in the FIFA World Cup. In the years that followed, football in Poland continued to flourish, with the country’s clubs and national team achieving success in both domestic and international competitions.
Today, football remains the most popular sport in Poland, with over 400,000 people regularly playing the sport throughout the country. The Polish national team is a member of both FIFA and UEFA, and the country has hosted several major football events, including the UEFA Euro 2012 tournament.
Polish Football Association
The Polish Football Association (Polski Związek Piłki Nożnej or PZPN) is the governing body of association football in Poland. It was founded on 20 December 1919 in Kraków, and it joined FIFA in 1923 and UEFA in 1955. The PZPN is responsible for organising the Polish football leagues, including the Polish Cup, as well as the Poland national football team. Its headquarters are located in the Polish capital of Warsaw.
Role and Responsibilities
The PZPN is responsible for the development and promotion of football in Poland. It sets the rules and regulations for the sport and ensures that they are followed by all member clubs and organisations. The PZPN also organises and oversees the Polish football leagues, including the Ekstraklasa, which is the top tier of the Polish football league system.
The PZPN has a range of responsibilities, including managing the national team, organising the Polish Cup, and developing grassroots football in the country. It also has a role in promoting fair play and combating discrimination and violence in football.
Notable Figures
Zbigniew Boniek is a former Polish footballer who played for several clubs, including Juventus and Roma. He is currently the president of the PZPN, having been elected to the role in 2012. Boniek is widely regarded as one of the greatest Polish footballers of all time, and he has been instrumental in the development of football in Poland.
Jerzy Brzęczek is a former Polish footballer who played as a midfielder. He is currently the head coach of the Poland national football team, having been appointed to the role in 2018. Brzęczek has had a successful career as a player and coach, and he has been praised for his tactical knowledge and ability to motivate his players.
Overall, the PZPN plays a vital role in the development and promotion of football in Poland. With the support of its members and the wider football community, it will continue to work towards its goal of making football accessible to all and ensuring that the sport is played in a fair and respectful manner.
Major Football Clubs in Poland
Poland is home to several major football clubs that have a rich history and a large following. These clubs have contributed significantly to the development of football in the country and have produced some of the best players in Polish football history.
Legia Warsaw
Legia Warsaw is one of the most successful football clubs in Poland. Founded in 1916, the club has won the Polish league title a record 15 times and has also won the Polish Cup 20 times. Legia Warsaw has a large and passionate fan base and plays its home matches at the Polish Army Stadium in Warsaw.
KS Cracovia
KS Cracovia is one of the oldest football clubs in Poland, having been founded in 1906. The club has won the Polish league title six times and has also won the Polish Cup twice. KS Cracovia has a strong rivalry with Wisla Krakow, and their matches are some of the most fiercely contested in Polish football.
Wisla Krakow
Wisla Krakow is one of the most successful football clubs in Poland, having won the Polish league title 13 times and the Polish Cup eight times. The club was founded in 1906 and plays its home matches at the Stadion Miejski im. Henryka Reymana in Krakow. Wisla Krakow has a fierce rivalry with KS Cracovia, and their matches are known as the Holy War.
These three clubs are some of the most successful and popular football clubs in Poland, with a large and passionate fan base. They have contributed significantly to the development of football in the country and have produced some of the best players in Polish football history.
Polish Premier League – Ekstraklasa
The Ekstraklasa, also known as the Polish Premier League, is the top professional football league in Poland. It consists of 16 teams, with the season typically running from July to May of the following year.
Structure and Format
The league uses a round-robin format, meaning each team plays every other team twice, once at home and once away. Teams are awarded three points for a win, one point for a draw, and zero points for a loss. At the end of the season, the team with the most points is crowned the champion, while the bottom two teams are relegated to the I Liga, the second tier of Polish football.
Notable Performances
In recent years, the Ekstraklasa has been dominated by two teams: Legia Warsaw and Lech Poznań. Legia Warsaw has won the league title a record 15 times, including four times in the last six seasons. Lech Poznań has won the league title eight times, most recently in the 2014-15 season.
Other notable performances include Wisła Kraków, who have won the league title 13 times, but have struggled in recent years and were relegated to the I Liga in the 2020-21 season. Górnik Zabrze, who have won the league title 14 times, have also struggled in recent years and were relegated to the I Liga in the 2018-19 season.
Overall, the Ekstraklasa is known for its competitive matches and passionate fans, making it a must-watch for football fans both in Poland and around the world.
Poland in International Competitions
Poland has a rich history of football and has participated in several international competitions. In this section, we will discuss Poland’s performance in World Cup, European Championship and Olympics.
World Cup
Poland has participated in nine FIFA World Cups, with their first appearance being in 1938. They were eliminated by Brazil in the first round. Poland’s best performance in the World Cup was in 1974 and 1982, where they finished third in both tournaments. In the 2018 World Cup, Poland was eliminated in the group stage.
European Championship
Poland has participated in the UEFA European Championship seven times, with their first appearance being in 2008. Poland’s best performance in the European Championship was in 2016 when they reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Portugal in a penalty shootout. In the Euro 2020, Poland was drawn in Group E alongside Spain, Slovakia and Sweden.
Olympics
Poland has participated in football at the Olympics 10 times. Their best performance was in the 1972 Munich Olympics, where they won the silver medal. Poland has also won bronze medals in the 1976 Montreal Olympics and the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
In conclusion, Poland has a rich history of football and has participated in several international competitions. Although they have not won any major international tournaments, they have had some impressive performances in the World Cup, European Championship and Olympics.
Prominent Polish Footballers
Poland has a rich history of football, with many talented players having emerged from the country over the years. In this section, we will take a closer look at two of the most prominent Polish footballers in recent times: Robert Lewandowski and Karol Swiderski.
Robert Lewandowski
Robert Lewandowski is widely regarded as one of the best footballers in the world. Born in Warsaw in 1988, he began his professional career with Znicz Pruszkow before moving on to Lech Poznan and then Borussia Dortmund. In 2014, he joined Bayern Munich, where he has since become a key player and one of the most prolific goalscorers in the club’s history.
Lewandowski has also been a regular member of the Polish national team since 2008. He has scored over 70 goals for his country and helped them qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. In addition to his impressive goal-scoring record, Lewandowski is known for his technical ability, intelligence on the pitch, and leadership qualities.
Karol Swiderski
Karol Swiderski is a younger player, but one who has already made a name for himself in Polish football. Born in 1997, he began his career with Wisla Krakow before moving to PAOK in Greece in 2018. Since then, he has established himself as one of the most promising young players in Europe.
Swiderski is a versatile forward who can play in a variety of positions. He is known for his pace, dribbling skills, and ability to score goals from a range of distances. He has already won several honours with PAOK, including the Greek Super League title in 2019.
Both Lewandowski and Swiderski are excellent examples of the talent that can be found in Polish football. With their skill, dedication, and hard work, they have become two of the most prominent players in the sport today.
Football Culture in Major Polish Cities
Football in Krakow
Krakow, the second-largest city in Poland, is known for its passionate football fans and intense rivalries. The city has two major football clubs, Wisla Krakow and Cracovia, both of which have a long and storied history. Wisla Krakow, founded in 1906, is one of the oldest football clubs in Poland and has won the Polish league championship 13 times. Cracovia, founded in 1906, is the oldest football club in Krakow and one of the oldest in Poland. The club has won the Polish league championship twice.
The rivalry between Wisla Krakow and Cracovia is one of the most intense in Polish football. The two teams face each other in the Krakow Derby, which is one of the biggest events on the Polish football calendar. The derby is known for its passionate fans and intense atmosphere.
Football in Poznan
Poznan is another major city in Poland with a strong football culture. The city is home to Lech Poznan, one of the most successful football clubs in Poland. Lech Poznan has won the Polish league championship seven times and has a passionate fan base.
The club’s stadium, the INEA Stadion, is one of the most modern and impressive stadiums in Poland, with a capacity of over 43,000 spectators. The stadium has hosted several international matches and is a popular destination for football fans visiting Poznan.
Football in Chorzow
Chorzow is a city in southern Poland that is known for its football culture. The city is home to Gornik Zabrze, one of the most successful football clubs in Poland. Gornik Zabrze has won the Polish league championship 14 times and has a passionate fan base.
The club’s stadium, the Ernest Pohl Stadium, has a capacity of over 24,000 spectators and is known for its intense atmosphere. The stadium has hosted several international matches and is a popular destination for football fans visiting Chorzow.
Overall, football is an important part of the culture in major Polish cities like Krakow, Poznan, and Chorzow. The passion and intensity of the fans, combined with the success of the clubs, make football a major part of life in these cities.
Data and Statistics in Polish Football
Poland has a rich history in football, with millions of fans and thousands of players across the country. Here are some key data and statistics about Polish football:
- The most popular sport in Poland is football, with over 400,000 Poles playing football regularly and millions more playing occasionally.
- The first professional clubs were founded in the early 1900s, and the Poland national football team played its first international match in 1921.
- Legia Warsaw is the most successful club in Polish football history, having won a record 15 top-division championships and 19 Polish Cups.
- The current season of the 1. Liga in Poland sees ŁKS Łódź at the top of the table with 66 points from 34 matches played. KS Ruch Chorzów is in second place with 60 points.
- Górnik Zabrze holds the record for the most consecutive top-division championships won, with five titles from the 1962/63 season to the 1967/68 season.
- The Poland national football team has qualified for the FIFA World Cup eight times, finishing in third place in 1974 and 1982.
- In terms of UEFA European Championship, Poland has qualified for the tournament three times and reached the quarter-finals in 2016.
- The highest-scoring match in Polish football history was a 12-1 victory for Legia Warsaw against Polonia Bytom in 1951.
- The largest football stadium in Poland is the National Stadium in Warsaw, which has a capacity of 58,145.
- The Polish Football Association (PZPN) is the governing body of football in Poland and was founded in 1919.
These are just a few of the many data and statistics that make up the rich history of football in Poland.
Resources for Further Reading
Official Websites
Football fans looking for more information about football in Poland can visit the official website of the Polish Football Association (Polski Związek Piłki Nożnej). The website provides a wealth of information, including news, fixtures, results, and league tables for the top divisions of Polish football. Fans can also find information about the national team, as well as youth and women’s football.
Wikipedia
Wikipedia is a free encyclopedia that provides a comprehensive overview of football in Poland. The Football in Poland page covers the history of the sport in the country, as well as information about the national team, league system, and notable players. The page also includes information about football clubs in Poland, including their history, honours, and current squad.
In addition, the page provides information about the Polish Cup and the Polish SuperCup, as well as international competitions such as the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League. Fans can also find information about the Ekstraklasa, the top division of Polish football, as well as the I liga, the second division.
Overall, both the official website of the Polish Football Association and Wikipedia are excellent resources for fans looking to learn more about football in Poland.
Respect in Polish Football
Respect is an essential aspect of Polish football culture. Players, coaches, and fans alike are expected to demonstrate respect towards each other and the game. This attitude is reflected in the way matches are conducted, with players and fans adhering to strict codes of conduct.
One of the most significant displays of respect in Polish football is the pre-match handshake. Before each game, players from both teams line up and shake hands with each other and the referee. This tradition is a symbol of fair play and sportsmanship, and it is a powerful reminder that football is a game that should be played with integrity and respect.
Another way that respect is demonstrated in Polish football is through the way fans behave. Polish fans are known for their passionate support of their teams, but they are also expected to behave in a respectful and non-violent manner. Offensive chants and gestures are not tolerated, and fans who engage in such behaviour can face severe consequences, including fines and stadium bans.
Respect for the referees is also a crucial aspect of Polish football. Referees are expected to be treated with the utmost respect by players and fans alike. Any form of abuse towards referees is strictly prohibited, and players who engage in such behaviour can be sent off or face disciplinary action.
Finally, respect for the opposition is an essential part of Polish football culture. Players are expected to play hard but fair and to show respect towards their opponents both on and off the pitch. After the match, players from both teams often exchange shirts as a sign of mutual respect and admiration.
In conclusion, respect is a fundamental value in Polish football. From the pre-match handshake to the post-match shirt exchange, players, coaches, and fans are expected to demonstrate respect towards each other and the game. This culture of respect is one of the reasons why Polish football is so highly regarded around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can alcohol be consumed in Polish football stadiums?
No, alcohol consumption is prohibited in Polish football stadiums. This is enforced by the police and stewards who conduct thorough checks on fans entering the stadium. Any fans caught with alcohol will be ejected from the stadium and may face further penalties.
What is the most popular sport in Poland besides football?
Volleyball is the second most popular sport in Poland after football. Other sports that are popular in Poland include handball, basketball, and ice hockey.
Who are some of the top players on the Poland football team?
Robert Lewandowski is undoubtedly the most well-known player on the Poland football team. Other notable players include Wojciech Szczesny, Piotr Zielinski, and Arkadiusz Milik.
What are some of the most successful football clubs in Poland?
Legia Warsaw is the most successful football club in Poland, having won the Ekstraklasa (Polish top-flight league) 14 times. Other successful clubs include Wisla Krakow, Gornik Zabrze, and Lech Poznan.
How has the popularity of football in Poland changed over time?
Football has always been popular in Poland, but its popularity has fluctuated over time. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest in Polish football, thanks in part to the success of the national team and the increased exposure of the Ekstraklasa through television coverage and social media.
What are the rules and regulations for attending a football match in Poland?
Fans attending football matches in Poland are required to have a valid ticket and ID. They are also subject to thorough searches by stewards and police officers before entering the stadium. It is important to note that flares, smoke bombs, and other pyrotechnics are strictly prohibited and can result in severe penalties. Additionally, fans are expected to behave in a respectful and sportsmanlike manner towards other fans, players, and officials. Any fans found to be engaging in violent or abusive behaviour may be ejected from the stadium and may face further legal action.
Who is the best player in Poland’s football team?
As of 2023, the most highly regarded player in the Polish national football team is Robert Lewandowski. Renowned for his exceptional goal-scoring ability and tactical acumen, Lewandowski has established himself as one of the top footballers in the world. His talent is widely recognised within the football community, as evidenced by his rating in FIFA 23, where he is ranked as the highest among all Polish footballers. His performance on the pitch and contribution to his team underscores his position as the standout player for Poland.
How popular is football in Poland?
Football is the most popular sport in Poland, with over 400,000 individuals regularly participating and millions more playing on an occasional basis. The sport’s popularity began to rise in the late 19th century, and the first professional clubs were established in the early 1900s. The Poland national football team played its first international match in 1921. The country’s national federation, the Polish Football Union, was founded in 1919 and joined FIFA in 1923 and UEFA in 1955. Today, Polish football has a rich history that is deeply connected to the country’s past and cultural identity.
