Lina Souloukou: A Trailblazer in Football Management and International Sports Law
Lina Souloukou, a distinguished football executive born on October 11, 1983, in Larissa, Greece, has made significant strides in sports management and law over her illustrious career. With over 15 years of experience, she has held high-profile roles, including General Manager at Olympiacos FC and CEO of AS Roma. Her expertise, coupled with her legal background, has positioned her as a prominent figure in the global football landscape.
Early Life and Educational Background
Souloukou’s journey in sports began with her academic achievements. She graduated with a law degree from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Furthering her education, she earned a Master’s in Sports Management from the Polytechnic University of Madrid, specializing in sports law. Additionally, she holds a Master of Laws (LLM) in International Sports Law from ISDE, an esteemed institute for higher legal studies. This robust foundation equipped her to navigate the complexities of sports management with precision.
Professional Career
Athens Olympic Games 2004
Lina’s career took off during the Athens 2004 Olympic and Paralympic Games, where she served as a Doping Venue Manager and Coordinator. This role showcased her ability to handle high-pressure situations and laid the groundwork for her future in sports management.
Olympiacos FC
In December 2016, Souloukou joined Olympiacos FC as Director of Legal and International Affairs. Her exceptional leadership led to her promotion as General Manager in May 2018. During her tenure, she collaborated closely with the club’s ownership, steering the team toward both financial stability and sporting success. Under her leadership, Olympiacos experienced a period of growth that resonated across European football.
AS Roma
In April 2023, Lina was appointed CEO and General Manager of AS Roma, making her a key figure in Italian football. Her tenure was marked by challenges, including managing fan unrest following the dismissal of coach Daniele De Rossi. Despite these hurdles, Souloukou’s strategic insights helped maintain the club’s stature in European competitions. She stepped down from her role in September 2024, leaving behind a legacy of strong governance.
Lina Souloukou’s Role in UEFA and ECA
Since 2019, Lina has been a member of the European Club Association (ECA) Executive Board, representing diversity and inclusion in football leadership. Her influence expanded further when she joined the UEFA Clubs Competitions Committee in 2023. These roles highlight her commitment to fostering a fair and inclusive environment in global football.
Personal Life: Family and Interests
Lina Souloukou is married to Dimitris Stamatelatos, and the couple has a son, Michael, born in 2016. Beyond her professional commitments, Lina is known for her love of sports, having been an international volleyball player before transitioning to football management.
Transition to Nottingham Forest
In December 2024, Nottingham Forest announced Lina’s appointment as their new CEO, effective January 5, 2025. Club owner Evangelos Marinakis expressed confidence in her leadership, citing her proven track record and alignment with the club’s vision. Her move to Nottingham Forest marks a new chapter in her career and showcases her adaptability in navigating different football cultures.
Lina Souloukou’s Influence in International Football
Key Achievements
- Successfully managed Olympiacos FC during a period of financial and sporting growth.
- Played a pivotal role in AS Roma’s strategic direction amidst challenges.
- Advocated for diversity and inclusion as an ECA Executive Board member.
- Served as an arbitrator at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS/CAS).
Vision for Football
Lina Souloukou’s contributions go beyond managing clubs. Her vision for football includes promoting diversity in leadership, enhancing legal frameworks, and fostering financial sustainability within clubs.
Quick Info:
- Lina Souloukou Roma: Her tenure as CEO of AS Roma solidified her expertise in managing top-tier European football clubs.
- Lina Souloukou Everton: Speculation arose about her potential move to Everton, reflecting her high demand in the football industry.
- Lina Souloukou Age: At 41, Lina exemplifies the balance of experience and energy required for modern football management.
- Lina Souloukou Olympiacos: Her time at Olympiacos FC remains one of the most successful chapters of her career.
- Lina Souloukou Could Join Everton: Reports suggest her capabilities make her a strong candidate for leadership roles at other prominent clubs.
- Lina Souloukou Nationality: As a proud Greek, her roots have played a role in shaping her professional ethos.
- Lina Souloukou Husband: Her husband, Dimitris Stamatelatos, and their family form the personal foundation of her professional success.
What’s Next for Lina Souloukou?
With her upcoming role at Nottingham Forest, Lina is poised to bring her wealth of experience to the English football scene. Her leadership is expected to drive the club’s growth, both on and off the pitch. As she transitions into this role, the football world will be watching her efforts to further enhance Nottingham Forest’s standing in European football.
Conclusion
Lina Souloukou’s journey from Larissa, Greece, to the helm of prominent football clubs demonstrates her dedication and impact in the industry. Her ability to navigate challenges, coupled with her legal expertise and leadership qualities, makes her a trailblazer in football management. Whether at Olympiacos, Roma, or Nottingham Forest, Lina’s legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and excellence in the beautiful game.
