Kristofers Ritovs is a visionary sports leader and founder of Lidl Arena, one of Latvia’s most dynamic football venues. His mission is to use sport not only as entertainment, but as a powerful tool for social inclusion and community building.
Born and raised in Latvia, Kristofers first developed a passion for sports through basketball. However, it was during his time working in France that he witnessed football’s unique power to bridge cultures and unite communities. Inspired by this experience, he returned home determined to create a space where sport could drive real societal impact.
In 2020, Kristofers founded Lidl Arena (www.lidlarena.lv) to address the lack of accessible, high-quality sports infrastructure in Latvia. Under his leadership, the arena has grown into a nationally recognized hub for grassroots football, education, and integration. He leads a team of 30 professionals, overseeing everything from daily operations and partnerships to tournaments, youth camps, and social programs.
Kristofers is especially committed to supporting marginalized groups. Through various dedicated programs, Lidl Arena has welcomed over 2,500 refugees into its activities – offering training, mentorship, and community engagement, often in collaboration with local clubs, schools, and NGOs.
A defining moment in his career came in 2024, when he played a key role in Latvia’s refugee team winning the Unity EURO Cup, a UEFA and UNHCR tournament promoting refugee inclusion. Kristofers helped assemble and prepare the team, ensuring competitiveness, cohesion, and pride.
Driven by honesty, ambition, and a belief in football’s deeper purpose, Kristofers Ritovs is redefining sports leadership in Latvia and beyond – proving that football, when led with heart and vision, can be a force for transformation.
