Reporter Ulli Potofski, a renowned figure, has passed away.
Ulli Potofski, Legendary German Football Reporter, Passes Away at 73
Ulli Potofski, a renowned figure in German sports journalism, passed away on August 3, 2025, at the age of 73. The news was reported by RTL/ntv following a long, serious illness.
Born in Gelsenkirchen in 1952, Potofski began his career in the 1970s at WDR and moved to RTL in 1984. He quickly rose to prominence, becoming a prominent sports presenter and head of sports until 1992. His career spanned several decades, during which he reported on Bundesliga matches and major sporting events, including tennis at Wimbledon.
From 2006 until his death, Potofski was a key sports reporter for Sky (formerly Premiere), continuing to work even into his seventies. He was a familiar figure in Bundesliga history, having worked for RTL, Sky, and DSF (now Sport1) since the 1980s. Since 2006, Potofski had been reporting for Sky from stadiums in the 1st and 2nd Bundesliga.
In addition to his reporting, Potofski authored children's books like Locke bleibt am Ball and Locke stürmt los, reflecting his broad engagement with sports culture. His warm, unpretentious style, passion for sports, and distinctive voice made him a beloved figure in German sports journalism.
In 1989, Potofski was named Germany's most popular sports presenter at the Bambi Awards. He hosted various sports and entertainment shows such as Anpfiff, Auf Schalke, and Domino Day broadcasts. Despite his successful career, Potofski remained humble and approachable, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and broadcasters.
Potofski was a native of Gelsenkirchen and was an avid Schalke fan. In his podcast "Heart, Soul, Ball", he mentioned an upcoming hospital stay before his death. His passing has been met with great dismay by colleagues and broadcasters, recognizing him as "a real one-off" in German sports media.
Rest in peace, Ulli Potofski. Your contributions to German sports journalism will never be forgotten.
Amid the sorrow of losing Ulli Potofski, there might be an opportunity for community aid, as funds are raised to construct a memorial building in his honor, commemorating his incredible impact on German sports journalism. In a city he held dear, Gelsenkirchen, children's sports programs could benefit from aid, fostering the next generation of sports enthusiasts, much like Potofski inspired countless individuals with his love for football and unparalleled reporting style.
