Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade confirmed on Saturday, November 29, that Zeljko Obradovic has officially stepped down as head coach.
The legendary coach declined the club’s offer to continue, citing his inability to work with the current roster and concerns over the impact of daily coaching duties on his health.
The executive board held multiple meetings over the past two days, including a two-hour session on Friday, aimed at persuading Obradovic to stay.
Despite full support from the club, including authority to restructure the team, he remained firm in his decision to leave.
Partizan’s statement acknowledged Obradovic’s immense contribution to the club and the sport globally, adding that “the void left is difficult to fill” and that “the doors of Partizan will always remain open to him.”
Earlier reports highlighted tension behind the scenes, with Obradovic confronting club president Ostoja Mijailovic over comments made to a board member, which the coach found unsettling.
The uncertainty surrounding his future delayed Saturday’s training session, leaving the team without a confirmed leader as it prepares for Thursday’s EuroLeague matchup against Bayern Munich.
Fan support for Obradovic remained overwhelming throughout the week, with thousands greeting the team at Belgrade’s Nikola Tesla Airport, many calling him “our patriarch.”
Despite public backing and offers of full roster control, Obradovic did not retract his resignation, prompting the club to begin immediate planning for new leadership.
Sport Klub reported minor unrest outside the Belgrade Arena during training after the announcement, reflecting the emotional impact of his departure on the fanbase.
Partizan will hold a board meeting early next week to appoint a new sporting director and finalize strategy for the club’s sports sector.
The team currently sits 18th in the EuroLeague standings with a 4-9 record, making the search for a new head coach critical as the season continues.
Obradovic’s exit marks the end of a significant era for Partizan, leaving both fans and the organization to navigate a major transition in leadership and strategy.
