"Sports journalist Potofski passes away at 73, a unique figure in sports reporting"
Ulli Potofski, a beloved German sports reporter, has passed away at the age of 73 following a short, serious illness. The news of his death was confirmed by his family on August 3, 2025.
Potofski began his career in the 1970s at WDR, and later moved to RTL in 1984. He was known for his pioneering work in modern football reporting, mastering the fine line between media neutrality and royal blue passion. In 1988, Potofski developed the legendary Bundesliga show "Anpfiff" for RTL.
Potofski was a familiar face on German television, and was also a participant in the 9th season of the RTL show "Let's dance." He was remembered for his humorous nature and ability to touch people with his down-to-earth manner, warmth, and enthusiasm. Joachim Llambi, chief juror of "Let's dance," wrote a heartfelt tribute to Potofski upon his death, calling him one of his favorite candidates.
In recent years, Potofski continued to work for Sky, commenting on games and working as a pitchside reporter for pay-TV. He had been standing by the sideline for Sky until the very end, intending to continue doing so in the coming season. Potofski reported mainly about the Bundesliga for Sky (formerly Premiere) since 2006, and also covered other major sporting events like Wimbledon.
Potofski was not just a sports reporter, he also reported on events other than sports, such as the annual Domino Day broadcast by Cologne-based TV station between 1998 and 2009. He even wrote several children's books, including "Locke stays on the ball" and "Locke storms ahead."
In his final podcast, Potofski discussed Schalke, Hertha, Fabian Reese, and "an exciting season" in the 2. Bundesliga, just days before his hospitalization. On July 31st, he spoke about his current hospital stay in his podcast "Heart, Soul, Ball."
Several Bundesliga clubs expressed their condolences on social media after the news of his death. Sky expressed "great shock" at his death, describing Potofski as a true original with great passion for sport, an unmistakable voice, and the ability to touch people with his down-to-earth manner, warmth, and enthusiasm. RTL spoke of "countless special TV moments" that Potofski had created.
In a video contribution, RTL showed footage of Potofski reporting from the old Parkstadion in Gelsenkirchen with magnificent curls, great enthusiasm, and a yellow RTL microphone in his hand. Potofski will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Despite his career spanning various genres, Ulli Potofski will be fondly remembered for his pioneering work in football reporting, particularly his time at RTL and Sky. His passion for the sport, evident in his coverage of Bundesliga matches, was contagious and touched many.
