Technology – Page 2 – MIL Translation Engine 1

March 13, 2026

SOLLERS Group is preparing to launch production of security system components.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Sollers – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The SOLLERS Group is preparing to launch new production of steering wheels, airbags and seat belts, as well as electronic control units at the UAZ industrial site.

Igor Komarov, Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Russian Federation in the Volga Federal District, and Alexey Russkikh, Governor of the Ulyanovsk Region, inspected the production facilities. Passive safety components will be manufactured at Components of Security Systems LLC, a subsidiary of SOLLERS PJSC.

The project will pioneer the use of technologies that have no analogues in Russia: casting steering wheel frames from domestic magnesium alloy, as well as laser cutting and sewing of airbag materials.

Commissioning work is currently underway at the plant. A pilot batch of products has been manufactured and submitted for validation testing. Serial production is scheduled to begin in April 2026.

The total investment in the project is 1.5 billion rubles, of which 1.2 billion rubles were provided by the Industrial Development Fund in the form of a preferential loan.

"The new production facility is a fulfilled step in the UAZ industrial development program. We presented the long-term cooperation project in 2024 and received the support of the Plenipotentiary Representative. We discussed the plans today. The regional government and the SOLLERS Group continue to work closely together," noted Alexey Russkikh.

"Preparations for the launch of passive safety system component production in Ulyanovsk are one of the stages of the SOLLERS Group's large-scale investment program. The total investment in the development of the Ulyanovsk site by 2027 will amount to 18 billion rubles. Major projects include the launch of the Sollers S9 SUV and the UAZ family of vehicles with new powertrains, a new press facility, and the construction of a paint facility," commented Nikolay Sobolev, CEO of SOLLERS PJSC.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

March 13, 2026

The SOLLERS Group presented the new Sollers SF1 minibus.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Sollers – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The SOLLERS Group unveiled the new seven-seat Sollers SF1 minibus. The passenger version of the model was unveiled on December 11 in Moscow.

The new SF1 model was the main premiere at an event dedicated to the Sollers passenger transport lineup, which also featured discussions on the development of transport mobility and passenger transportation. The event was attended by Adil Shirinov, Chairman of the Board of Directors of PJSC SOLLERS, invited experts in the transport and automotive industries, as well as the company's clients and partners.

The Sollers SF1 minibus is designed to carry 6 passengers in a 2x2x3 layout. Thanks to its passenger car dimensions, 1.9 m height, and increased maneuverability, the vehicle is ideal for driving in dense city traffic and entering underground parking lots.

"The passenger version of the Sollers SF1 is aimed at both private owners for family trips and fleet customers for commercial use. Given the high level of localization from the very start of production, the new minibus will meet the requirements of the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade for participation in state programs for preferential car loans and leasing, as well as for inclusion in the register of vehicles approved for use as taxis. These support measures will make purchasing a Sollers SF1 as accessible as possible for all categories of consumers," commented Marat Sharapov, Director of Sales and Marketing at SOLLERS.

The Sollers SF1 is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 136 hp. The engine meets Euro 5 emissions standards and is paired with a five-speed manual transmission.

The cabin's rich basic equipment includes two front airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), ultrasonic rear parking sensors, electric side windows and mirrors, air conditioning, a standard audio system with USB and MP3 support, heated seats for the driver, front passenger and steering wheel, fog lights and LED daytime running lights.

The interior features an additional heater, seats with wear-resistant fabric upholstery, cup holders, and ports for charging devices in the side panels.

Serial production of Sollers SF1 minibuses using full-cycle technology is planned to begin at the SOLLERS plant in Yelabuga in the first quarter of 2026.

March 13, 2026

Sales of Sollers SA6 buses have begun in Russia.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Sollers – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

SOLLERS announces the launch of sales of the Sollers SA6 bus. The 9-meter model is available from the brand's dealers, starting at 10,700,000 rubles.

The Sollers SA6 is the second model in the company's line of tourist and intercity buses, offering broad commercial potential. This bus is ideal not only for tourist and excursion routes, but also for intercity regional transportation, as well as for corporate transportation for company and organization employees. Its compact dimensions, reliable powertrain, and fuel-efficient components ensure efficient operation on Russian roads.

The bus's structural foundation is a durable and lightweight monocoque body, with a curb weight that's among the best in its class. To ensure corrosion resistance, all structural components undergo a full cataphoretic treatment, and the exterior panels are made of aluminum and plastic.

The Sollers SA6 is equipped with a 6.5-liter diesel engine producing 245 hp and a six-speed manual transmission. Standard equipment includes ABS and ESC electronic systems.

The spacious 35-passenger cabin is designed for comfortable travel. It features ergonomically designed soft seats with reclining backs, USB ports, a modern climate control system with air conditioning, improved noise and vibration insulation, and LED lighting. Luggage compartments offer a total volume of 3.3 m³.

The new model is available for order and purchase at Sollers dealerships starting at 12,700,000 rubles. The Sollers SA6 bus is also included in the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade's preferential leasing program, providing a special discount of up to 2,000,000 rubles. Therefore, taking into account the special offer, the minimum price of the Sollers SA6 is 10,700,000 rubles.

The first copy of Sollers SA6 has already been delivered to a client from Moscow.

March 13, 2026

SOLLERS Group announces new personnel appointments aimed at strengthening the company's management resources for the development of new product production and the further modernization of the Group's industrial sites.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Sollers – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

From February 1, 2026, two new positions of Deputy General Director will appear in the organizational structure of PJSC SOLLERS.

Alexey Matasov, CEO of SOLLERS Alabuga LLC, will assume the position of Deputy General Director for Industrial Infrastructure Development and New Industrial Projects. His responsibilities will include projects to modernize and create new production capacities and technological upgrades at all of the group's industrial sites, as well as optimizing and improving the efficiency of the sites' utility infrastructure.

Alexey Spirin, former head of the Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant, will assume the second position of Deputy General Director for Production and Quality at SOLLERS PJSC. His role will involve the implementation of a unified production system, production and quality management standards across all industrial projects, and oversight of the production program.

At the same time, Ilnur Sakhabiev, who is the head of the Zavolzhsky Motor Plant and also led projects for the production of new diesel engines and SOLLERS gearboxes, will be appointed to the position of General Director of UAZ LLC as of February 1 of this year.

"We are currently implementing the largest projects in the history of SOLLERS: launching new vehicle production, creating new component production facilities, and comprehensively reengineering and modernizing UAZ and ZMZ industrial sites. Such a comprehensive transformation in such a short timeframe requires maximum concentration of our management resources and the simultaneous deployment of our managers' unique competencies across all production units and projects," noted Adil Shirinov, Chairman of the Board of Directors of PJSC SOLLERS. "Our goal is to ensure that the best practices of each industrial division and the synergies existing between them are utilized as effectively as possible within the SOLLERS Group. And a key role here will, of course, be played by our most experienced production leaders, who will now have greater authority and opportunities to manage end-to-end and cross-functional projects across all enterprises," explained Adil Shirinov.

March 13, 2026

The Sollers SF1 passenger minivan is available for pre-order.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Sollers – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

SOLLERS announces the start of pre-orders for the new seven-seat Sollers SF1 passenger minivan. The vehicle is available for order at dealerships starting at 2,250,000 rubles.

The new model will be included in the list of vehicles approved by the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade for use as taxis.

The Sollers SF1 passenger version is a versatile solution for families and businesses. The minivan's 2x2x3 configuration seats six passengers and easily adapts to any needs, from daily family trips to commercial transport. Ergonomic, separate second-row seats with longitudinal adjustment and 50/50-split folding third-row backrests provide passenger comfort and flexibility, allowing for increased luggage space.

This minivan combines maneuverability for city driving and practicality for long-distance travel. At 5.1 meters long and 1.9 meters tall, it's ideal for navigating dense city traffic and underground parking.

The Sollers SF1 is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 136 hp, running on AI-92 gasoline and meeting the Euro-5 emission standard. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

The basic configuration of the minivan includes two airbags, ABS, disc brakes on all wheels, air conditioning, heated steering wheel, front seats, mirrors and washer nozzles, ultrasonic rear parking sensors, electric side windows and mirrors, a standard audio system, fog lights and LED daytime running lights.

The passenger version of the Sollers SF1 is available for pre-order at the brand's official dealerships, starting at 2,250,000 rubles.

March 13, 2026

The SOLLERS Group has begun full-cycle production of the Sollers SF1 minivan in Yelabuga.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Sollers – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Serial production of the seven-seat passenger version of the Sollers SF1 has begun at the SOLLERS Alabuga plant. The vehicle will be included in the list of vehicles approved by the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade for taxi service.

The Sollers SF1 passenger car model joins the brand's extensive lineup, manufactured on the company's comprehensive assembly line. Production of the model is organized using a full-cycle process that includes all key stages: welding and anti-corrosion cataphoresis immersion treatment of the body, painting, and final assembly.

Each vehicle undergoes a comprehensive inspection, including an inspection of components, assemblies, and electrical systems, an inspection of the interior, and an assessment of the paintwork and weld quality. A mandatory step is a leak test in a rain chamber under conditions simulating a tropical downpour, as well as a performance test on a special track with speed bumps to evaluate suspension performance and identify potential extraneous noise.

As part of the new model's production organization, the plant modernized the side window gluing section and introduced additional operations for equipping the passenger compartment, including the installation of seats, the climate control system, and interior elements.

The Sollers SF1, designed to carry six passengers, combines the maneuverability of a passenger car with the practicality of a large minibus, and its overall height of 1.9 m allows it to enter underground parking.

Under the hood of the minivan is a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 136 hp, compliant with the Euro-5 standard and adapted to run on AI-92 gasoline. It is paired with a five-speed manual transmission. Even the base trim level offers a wide range of options: front airbags, ABS, ESC, disc brakes on all wheels, air conditioning, heated steering wheel, front seats, mirrors, and washer nozzles, rear parking sensors, power side windows and mirrors, a standard audio system, fog lights, and LED daytime running lights.

The passenger version of the Sollers SF1 is now available for order at the brand's dealerships, priced at 2,250,000 rubles. The first production minivans will go on sale in the spring of 2026.

March 12, 2026

Vladimir Putin awarded state awards to AVTOTOR employees.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Vladimir Putin awarded state awards to AVTOTOR employees

Source: AVTOTOR – Avtotor motor vehicles – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

AVTOTOR employees have been awarded high state awards. By Decree No. 79O of February 14, 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the achievements and long-term conscientious work of representatives of one of the largest enterprises in the Kaliningrad Region. The Order "For Merit to the Fatherland," 1st Class, was awarded to AVTOTOR Senior Vice President and Technical Director German Titov.

The Medal of the Order “For Merit to the Fatherland”, 2nd degree, was awarded to the Director of the General Customer Department – Project Director of AVTOTOR Holding LLC, Sergey Lomovtsev.

The awardees are AVTOTOR veterans. For many years, they have led strategically important projects for the development of the company and the entire automotive industry.

Their significant contribution to the implementation of the project to create an Automotive Components and Electric Vehicle Cluster in the Kaliningrad Region was particularly noted. This project is being implemented under a special investment contract (SPIC) concluded with the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation and the Government of the Kaliningrad Region with the support of the Industrial Development Fund and Russian credit institutions. The contract is aimed at creating a highly localized production base, developing technological competencies, and accelerating import substitution processes in key segments of the automotive industry.

German Titov is leading a comprehensive program to create new high-tech production facilities, modernize, and consistently increase localization of production. This enables the company to implement its plan to transition to advanced full-cycle automobile production, creates a foundation for enhancing the company's competitiveness, and serves the interests of the domestic automotive industry. German Vitalyevich has been with AVTOTOR since 2007 and was awarded the "For Valiant Labor in the AVTOTOR Group" medals, 2nd and 3rd class, and received a commendation from the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation in 2013. In 2019, he was awarded the medal of the Order "For Merit to the Fatherland," 2nd class.

Under his direct supervision, the entire production and technical-technological base was established, equipment was installed, and all technological processes were launched at the first-stage plants of the Automotive Components and Electric Vehicles Cluster. This includes seven new plants integrated into a single chain and providing a full cycle of manufacturing units, components, and assemblies, including critical ones such as electric motors and power control electronics. For several years, German Vitalyevich has also been developing and implementing a project to create a universal metallurgical complex in the Kaliningrad Region, including non-ferrous casting plants with machining and ferrous and steel casting plants with machining.

This production facility, unique to the Kaliningrad region and based on cutting-edge customized technologies unmatched in Russia and the CIS, represents a technological breakthrough in terms of developing the region's industrial potential and advancing the automotive component manufacturing industry. The creation of a flexible foundry for machining ferrous metal parts, including internal combustion engines, transmissions, and steering systems, is part of the second phase of the automotive components cluster, which will close the manufacturing chain for critical components, which is crucial for creating an independent component base.

With his many years of work and exceptional professional skills, German Titov makes a significant contribution to enhancing the competitiveness of the Russian automotive industry, developing domestic technologies, and achieving technological independence.

For outstanding achievements and many years of dedicated service, Sergey Semenovich Lomovtsev, Director of the General Customer Department and Project Director at AVTOTOR Holding LLC, was awarded the Medal of the Order "For Merit to the Fatherland," 2nd Class, by decree of the President of the Russian Federation. He has worked in the mechanical engineering industry for over 45 years. Since 2004, he has worked for the AVTOTOR Group, supporting the development of automotive production capacities and implementing the company's investment projects in the creation of strategically important production and engineering infrastructure facilities. In 2018, Sergey Semenovich Lomovtsev was awarded the honorary title of "Honored Mechanical Engineer of the Russian Federation." He has also received a Certificate of Gratitude from the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation and medals "For Valiant Labor in the AVTOTOR Group," 3rd, 2nd, and 1st Class.

Over the years of his work in the mechanical engineering industry, he submitted approximately three hundred rationalization proposals and registered several dozen copyright certificates.

During his tenure at AVTOTOR, Sergey Semenovich made a significant contribution to the project to establish full-scale automotive production facilities in the Kaliningrad region, implementing a number of cutting-edge technical solutions for which he personally initiated and developed them. Under his direct supervision, the construction and equipping of new production facilities, covering a total area of over 50,000 square meters, was organized, as well as the creation of a modern, highly productive automated industrial system based on cutting-edge technologies, in line with the best global practices used in the automotive industry.

For several years, Sergey Lomovtsev personally oversaw the creation of the entire production and engineering infrastructure for each of the plants within the Automotive Components Cluster. In preparation for the launch of the first phase, seven new plants, as well as buildings and facilities for technical and utility purposes, were constructed and equipped—a total of over 180,000 square meters of construction area.

In his approach to this work, Sergei Semenovich demonstrated not only the highest level of professionalism but also a deep understanding of the project's strategic significance for the industrial potential of Russia and the Kaliningrad region, employing innovative technological solutions and thereby fulfilling the objectives set at the highest government level.

AVTOTOR is proud of its veterans, dedicated professionals, mentors, and people who are passionate about the overall result. Thanks to them, the company's work traditions are preserved, high standards of professional excellence are established, and a solid foundation for future achievements is built.

The team, company management, and the Council of the Kaliningrad Regional Trade Union of Automotive Workers "AVTOTOR-Prof" congratulate their colleagues on receiving these well-deserved high state awards, which is a significant event for our entire enterprise!

March 6, 2026

Strengthening cooperation in science and education: a delegation from the AVTOTOR plant visited the Kantiana neocampus.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Strengthening cooperation in science and education: A delegation from the AVTOTOR plant visited the Kantiana neo-campus.

Source: AVTOTOR – Avtotor motor vehicles – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

A delegation from the Kaliningrad-based AVTOTOR plant visited the Kantiana neocampus. Representatives of one of Russia's largest automakers, led by Ruslan Sadykov, the president and general director of the production complex, were introduced to the future scientific and educational spaces planned to open as part of the "Youth and Children" national project in the spring of 2026.

The tour was led by Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University Rector Maxim Demin. Guests were shown the "city within a city" and the student dormitories. Particular attention was paid to the building of the Institute of High Technologies (IHT), which will house mathematicians, physicists, and information technology specialists. The rector emphasized that the new campus offers not only modern infrastructure but also new meanings created in partnership with employers and industry. Plans are underway to open a chemistry training laboratory jointly with Renera LLC, a space laboratory with OKB Fakel, a medical analytics laboratory with ArsMedica, and coworking spaces with 1C-Bitrix and Alfa-Bank.

At the meeting, representatives of the Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University and the AVTOTOR plant discussed cooperation formats, from the creation of joint educational and research laboratories on campus to personnel training.

"AVTOTOR is a high-tech company that actively implements innovative developments and production methods. IKBFU can become the plant's flagship university, training specialists who, upon graduation, are fully prepared to join the company's missions, creating new technological solutions, materials, and possibly chemical compounds for AVTOTOR's future product lines. I am placing great emphasis on our research centers. We are dedicating the first floor of the future Institute of High Technologies building to work in the fields of materials science, modern engineering, instrumentation, and packaging for everything from batteries to electric vehicle components. This is one of AVTOTOR's key development vectors today. I am confident that long-term joint research and educational projects await us to ensure the country's technological sovereignty," the rector noted.

Ruslan Sadykov, President and CEO of the AVTOTOR manufacturing complex: "AVTOTOR is the largest manufacturing facility in the region, boasting a modern technological production base, and the company is currently implementing innovative projects in the field of electric mobility. Since our region has been designated by the President as a region for the development of electric transport, we see great potential in the joint development and promotion of this trend, including among students. Training students and their subsequent integration into AVTOTOR's production chains is critically important to us. I would also like to highlight the high level of campus infrastructure, which will undoubtedly become a unique scientific and educational center."

Scientists and engineers from IKBFU presented AVTOTOR representatives with developments and projects that could potentially be implemented in production. Alexander Popov, Director of the Baltic Engineering Center for Mechanical Engineering, noted the possibility of creating a traction battery based on lithium-ion cells from Renera LLC. Pavel Pogrebnyakov, Advisor for Innovation and Technology Policy at IKBFU and Director of Ampertex, presented a device for monitoring the temperature of an electric vehicle battery and discussed smart textile technologies. Specifically, he discussed conductive thread—a material that can be used to heat steering wheels, seats, and armrests in cars. Valeria Rodionova, Deputy Head of the IKBFU Institute of High Technologies for Innovative Development, noted the importance of IKBFU's developments in materials science and additive manufacturing, discussed the capabilities of the Institute of High Technologies, and discussed ongoing projects.

March 5, 2026

The 7th International Winter Ball AVTOTOR tournament concluded at the AVTOTOR ARENA Sports Palace.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

The 7th International Winter Ball AVTOTOR Tournament concluded at the AVTOTOR Arena Sports Palace.

Source: AVTOTOR – Avtotor motor vehicles – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

This year's tournament attracted a record number of teams: 48 adult and 48 children's teams, including participants from Mozambique, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Vietnam, the Republic of Belarus, and other countries. For the first time, the competition featured a group stage and playoffs, and also included elements of phygital.

Despite the large number of teams, the football players and invited guests noted the high level of the football competitions.

"This is a very good tournament, unique in Kaliningrad, and it's attracting attention. It's not just about sports; it's also about team building, and there's a large program running alongside the tournament. The emotions are nothing but positive, it's attracted a lot of attention, and it's turning into a real football festival," said Natalya Ishchenko, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Sport of the Kaliningrad Region.

As part of the tournament, AVTOTOR organized a press conference and autograph session with legends of Russian football. Anyone could ask questions to Rinat Dasayev, winner of the 1988 "Best Goalkeeper in the World" award; Oleg Romantsev, Honored Coach of Russia; Dmitry Alenichev, winner of the UEFA Cup and UEFA Champions League; Yegor Titov, Spartak Moscow's record holder for the most matches in the Russian championship; Roman Pavlyuchenko, bronze medalist of the 2008 European Championship; Dmitry Sychev, Russia's best footballer of 2004; and Pavel Pogrebnyak, winner of the UEFA Cup and UEFA Super Cup. All the invited stars also took part in a symbolic legends match, which took place on the AVTOTOR ARENA pitch before the finals.

The gala match was a thrilling affair. The Stars defeated the tournament's team 4-3.

"Well, first of all, the fact that such a sports complex exists is already great for the boys' growth. It's cold outside, but here it's summer. There's a field, a ball, all you have to do is train and grow," Oleg Romantsev told Russia.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to express my enormous gratitude to the organizers for the tournament. The sheer joy the children derive from it is truly indescribable. I want competitions to be held at this fantastic complex as often as possible," said Dmitry Alenichev.

The awards ceremony for the winners and runners-up took place on the pitch at AVTOTOR ARENA. The tournament's prize fund was 2 million rubles, along with gifts from its partners. The awards were presented by organizers, sponsors, and Russian football stars.

During the awards ceremony, Valery Gorbunov, Chairman of the Board of Directors of AVTOTOR Holding LLC, emphasized: "First of all, I want to thank Vladimir Shcherbakov, the founder and main shareholder of AVTOTOR. It was thanks to his decision and support that this tournament took place and grows in significance year after year. The presence of Soviet and Russian football legends gives the Winter Ball tournament special significance and highlights its contribution to the development of football in the country. For the boys who competed on the field today, this was an unforgettable experience. I am sure this day will remain etched in their memories forever—not just the games themselves, but also the opportunity to share this celebration with true football stars!"

The adult team winners were as follows: 1st place went to PSZ Yantar-Soyuzmash, 2nd place to RZD-Lokomotiv, and 3rd place to RANEPA's West of Russia. In the children's team category: 1st place to School No. 6, 2nd place to AVTOTOR, and 3rd place to Pervaya (Gymnasium No. 1).

Individual awards were also presented. Among schoolchildren, Andrei Galaktionov (Pervaya) was named best goalkeeper, Semyon Gorovoy (AVTOTOR) was named best forward, Konstantin Turutin (Gvardeets) was named best defenseman, and Ioann Perlukhin (School No. 6) was named best player. Among adult players, awards were presented to: best goalkeeper Sergei Vikulov (AVTOTOR), best forward Aleksandr Zharnikov (RZD-Lokomotiv), best defenseman Kirill Kaisidi (West Russia RANEPA), and best player Aleksandr Syrkin (PSZ Yantar-Soyuzmash).

On the final day, another futsal tournament was held in the AVTOTOR ARENA multi-purpose hall. Teams from across the Kaliningrad Region, comprised of players born in 2018, met on the court. This date is symbolic, as Russia hosted the 2018 FIFA World Cup, considered by many to be one of the best tournaments in history. Kaliningrad hosted four matches, becoming part of the grand football celebration. The veterans' tournament also brought together experienced players. Guests from Belarus, Armenia, and other countries took to the court. The Kaliningrad Region was represented by veterans of the Baltika football club. During the tournament, AVTOTOR ARENA hosted interactive areas and photo zones. A children's drawing contest, "AVTOTOR Winter Ball," was held among the children of company employees, as well as a competition for the title of best fan. All tournament guests were able to participate in a raffle for prizes provided by partners.

March 5, 2026

"AVTOTOR Winter Ball": The third round is over, the intrigue is growing ahead of the playoffs.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

"AVTOTOR Winter Ball": The third round is over, the intrigue is growing ahead of the playoffs

Source: AVTOTOR – Avtotor motor vehicles – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The final matches of the third group stage of the 7th International Mini-Football Tournament "AVTOTOR Winter Ball" concluded at AVTOTOR Arena. The day was a true celebration of sport, bringing together 16 school and 16 adult teams, each vying for the right to advance to the playoffs. The atmosphere in the stands was truly electrifying, and emotions were running high, foreshadowing a thrilling conclusion to the tournament. The opening of the game day featured drum performances, and before the start of the school portion, cheerleading energized the young football players with an energetic hip-hop dance, setting the dynamic tone for the entire event.

School Football: Leaders and Female Drive

The school portion of the tournament offered spectators many memorable moments. Both established leaders—Gymnasium No. 40, winners of the previous Winter Ball tournament, and the silver medalists, the AVTOTOR school team—and newcomers took to the field. The all-girl team from School No. 19 attracted particular attention. Their participation was a clear confirmation of the growing interest in football among schoolgirls. Coach Larisa Ivanova, a physical education teacher and five-time regional champion, the first female Kaliningrad football champion since 1988, proudly spoke of her team: "They're proud of it! They're the best in the school. Even the best boys haven't achieved as much. They're 10-time regional champions!" The girls don't just participate; they play on equal terms with the boys, demonstrating complex moves and a will to win. "We train with them constantly, and it's a great experience." "It's better for us, considering we're going to Veliky Novgorod in a week for a competition," Larisa Viktorovna explained. Young footballer Victoria Serebryanskaya confirmed the team's fighting spirit: "The atmosphere is awesome! I hope we win!" When asked if she's scared of playing with boys, Victoria confidently replied, "No. I train with them during practice, so it's not really scary. Our greatest strength is that we're strong together!"

The kids from Dobrovolsk made the four-hour bus journey from one of the most remote corners of the Kaliningrad region to experience the atmosphere of professional football. Their coach, Ashot Velyan, a youth coach from the Krasnoznamensky Municipal District, shared his impressions: "It's very pleasant here, a very good atmosphere. That's why I brought the kids here, so they could experience the real atmosphere of football, when there are many teams, many kids playing. This is rare here; it doesn't always happen." He noted that the children manage to compete despite the financial difficulties some families face. The administration and sponsors help the kids with uniforms and shoes, paving the way for them to enter professional sports. "We traveled four hours here, and it certainly takes a toll on their physical fitness. But I think my kids are strong in this regard." "They're used to difficulties, and that doesn't frighten us," added Ashot Edikovich, expressing hope that the tournament will help his players gain experience and become stronger.

Corporate Battles: International Scope and Powerful Support

After the schoolchildren, the adult corporate teams took to the pitch at AVTOTOR Arena. This year, the tournament confirmed its international status. Pedro Umwe from Equatorial Guinea, a country unique in Africa for its Spanish language and, perhaps for this reason, its love of football, shared his impressions: "The atmosphere at the tournament was incredible, a spirit of friendship and sporting celebration reigned." He, like many other foreign participants, spoke English, but everyone understood the language of football. In one of the groups, the winners of the previous tournament, the team from the Baltic Shipyard "Yantar," were battling for a spot in the playoffs, aiming to prove their class. The strongest support in the stands went to the "Founders" team, another AVTOTOR team representing auto component factories. The fans created an incredible atmosphere, bringing banners and prepared chants, demonstrating that corporate football is not just a game, but a true celebration for the entire team. The corporate teams demonstrated a game no less passionate than the young footballers, proving that the love of football knows no age or profession.

Playoffs and meetings with legends

The third round is over, and now all eyes are on the decisive matches. The 7th International AVTOTOR Winter Ball Tournament will culminate on February 14-15, with the most important playoff games and the grand finals. Teams will compete for a substantial prize pool of 2,000,000 rubles. Spectators will also be treated to exciting matches and encounters with legends of Russian and Soviet football. AVTOTOR Arena will host stars such as Rinat Dasayev, Oleg Romantsev, Dmitry Alenichev, Egor Titov, Pavel Pogrebnyak, Roman Pavlyuchenko, and Dmitry Sychev. Renowned sports journalists Vitaly Makarov and Pyotr Denisov from the federal television channel Match TV will continue to commentate on these unforgettable moments. Don't miss the main events of the AVTOTOR Winter Ball – it's going to be truly action-packed!

The AVTOTOR Winter Ball tournament was made possible thanks to the support of our wonderful partners. We want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who shared this sporting passion with us and helped organize this true football festival. Special thanks to our electric vehicle brands: AMBERAVTO and EONYX, as well as the NF-Motors dealership.