Sports media platform Tribuna.com has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from Ukraine’s premier sports outlet into a global digital entity. Co-founder Dmitry Navosha recently shared this journey in an interview with the Cyprus Mail, detailing the challenges faced during the war in Ukraine and the subsequent relocation to Cyprus.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine drastically altered the lives of Navosha and his team. Initially based in Ukraine, the onset of the war forced them to seek a more stable environment. Cyprus stood out as a potential new home, offering a supportive regulatory framework and a vibrant tech ecosystem.
Tribuna com: A Journey of Loss and Reinvention
As the war unfolded, Tribuna.com experienced an immediate economic shock, losing over 90% of its revenue almost overnight. “We were the country’s leading and profitable sports media outlet, but we had to rethink everything,” Navosha said, emphasising the urgency to rebuild and explore new markets.
Despite these hardships, the platform continues to attract over four million users in Ukraine, showcasing the enduring passion for sports amid adversity. This resilience has paved the way for the company’s transformation into an international sports startup.
Establishing Roots in Cyprus
Choosing Cyprus as their new base was strategic. The local regulatory environment is particularly friendly to IT and media firms, making the relocation process for team members smooth and predictable. “The widespread use of English was also a major factor,” Navosha noted, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere that Cyprus provided.
The local tech community has further supported Tribuna’s ambitions. Navosha mentioned initiatives such as Cyprus_IT and TechIsland as key platforms for networking and collaboration, enabling the company to integrate into the local ecosystem effectively.
Building a Competitive Edge
With a focus on community rather than just traffic, Tribuna.com aims to nurture genuine interactions among sports fans. “We believe our websites and apps are truly modern,” Navosha stated, aiming to meet the real needs of sports enthusiasts. This innovative approach sets them apart from many legacy media players.
As they continue to grow, the company is launching a new global app, targeting an audience that exceeds one billion people interested in sports worldwide. “We’ve only just crossed the one per cent threshold of our potential market,” he added, outlining ambitious plans for expansion.
Engaging with Local Communities
The Tribuna team is not just focused on global growth; they are actively engaging with the local Cypriot community. Navosha has participated in various conferences, sharing their expertise and fostering connections with industry peers. Collaborating with local professionals and attending events across Cyprus has enriched their experience and reinforced their commitment to the region.
A Vision for the Future
As they establish themselves globally, Tribuna.com is also dedicated to developing a strong brand presence in Western Europe and beyond. “While we are well known among fans in Ukraine, brand recognition still lags behind,” Navosha explained, emphasising the need to close that gap.
With a clear vision and a commitment to innovation, Tribuna.com is not merely surviving the challenges of the media landscape; they are actively reshaping it. As they look to the future, their mission transcends sports, aiming to redefine what media can be in a rapidly evolving world.
