Key facts:

• The privatized sports complex in Odesa had been abandoned for over 20 years;
• The prosecutor's office initiated a lawsuit due to serious breaches of the privatization contract;
• The Commercial Court of the Odesa Region upheld the prosecutor's claims. The decision is now in effect;
• In April 2025, the sports complex was officially returned to state ownership.

According to the Odesa Regional Prosecutor's Office, this facility is set to become an important center for physical activity for local residents. However, for more than two decades, it remained a lifeless concrete structure, deteriorating amidst residential development.

“This is a striking example of the consequences of irresponsible privatization that prioritized private interests over societal needs,” the office stated.

In 2002, the State Property Fund of Ukraine entered into a sales contract for the unfinished construction with the respondent. The contract stipulated that work was to be completed by 2014; however, the owner took no steps to finish construction or improve the area. The complex gradually fell into disrepair, and its purpose as a sports facility was largely ignored.

Due to gross violations of the contract terms, the prosecutor's office filed a lawsuit in the interest of the state. The Commercial Court of the Odesa Region satisfied the prosecutor's demands. The appellate court confirmed the legality of the decision, and the Supreme Court closed the cassation proceedings.

The court's decision is now legally binding.

“The court recognized that failing to meet construction deadlines is a significant breach of contract terms. This was grounds for contract termination and the return of the facility to the state,” the supervising office added.

Following the court's ruling, in April 2025, an acceptance-transfer act was signed between the parties, and the sports complex was officially returned to state ownership.