Jan Furtok is the patron of the new stadium in Katowice

Jasiu was born in Katowice and gained his first football skills here. It was thanks to his skills and accurate shots that GKS was promoted to the top league, said the president of Katowice, Marcin Krupa, justifying the draft resolution.

The mayor of Katowice remembers Jan Furtok

He recalled the striker's successes in Germany and his return to GKS in the 1990s, when the Silesian club found itself in a difficult situation. He was not only a great football player, but also a great person. Open and loving football, he said.

Since Furtok's death, the number 9 with which he played has been reserved in GKS. The announcer mentions it every time he announces the lineup during home games. The club's legend is also remembered by the fans who chant his name in the ninth minute of each match at the Arena Katowice.

We, as the city authorities, want to give a lasting sign of Jaś Furtok's memory by naming the new arena, which he did not live to see, he said.

He noted that a monument to the legendary player would be erected at the stadium. GKS players moved to the new stadium in March 2025.

Who was Jan Furtok?

Furtok died on November 26, 2024 at the age of 62 after a long battle with illness. He was the best scorer in the history of GKS. He played for the Katowice team in the years 1979-88 and 1995-97. He scored 122 goals in 299 games.

With the Silesian team, he won the Polish Cup, the national vice-championship and the bronze medal. He played a total of 36 matches for the national team and scored 10 goals. He appeared, among others: in the World Championships in Mexico (1986), he played for the German teams of Eintracht Frankfurt and HSV Hamburg.

After ending his career, he worked successfully as a youth group coach at GKS, was the club's sports director, first team coach, and after relegation to the fourth league - president of the club.