George Becali: The Life and Legacy of Romania’s Controversial Billionaire

George “Gigi” Becali, born on June 25, 1958, in Zagna, Brăila County, Romania, is a multifaceted figure whose life intertwines business, politics, and football. Known for his outspoken nature and controversial statements, Becali has been a prominent figure in Romanian society for decades. This article delves into his early life, family background, career, controversies, and personal life, providing a comprehensive overview of the man behind the headlines.

Early Life and Background

George Becali hails from a family with Albanian roots. His paternal grandfather, Gheorghe Becali, was originally from the Korça region in Albania and migrated to Romania in 1928. The family settled in the Dobrudja region, and later in Săcălaz, near Timișoara, where they returned to pastoralism. Becali’s upbringing in a modest, rural setting laid the foundation for his later ventures into business and politics.

Business Ventures

George Becali’s rise to prominence began in the real estate sector. He became a millionaire through various business exchanges with the Romanian Army, leveraging his position to acquire valuable land. One notable transaction involved a land swap with the army, where he exchanged a 21.5-hectare plot in Ștefăneștii de Jos for a 20.9-hectare plot in Băneasa-Pipera, a prime area in northern Bucharest. As real estate prices soared in the capital, Becali sold the land to companies that developed residential areas, significantly increasing his wealth.

Football Ownership

In 2003, Becali became the majority shareholder of Steaua Bucharest, one of Romania’s most successful football clubs. Under his ownership, the club was rebranded as FCSB. Becali’s involvement in football has been marked by his hands-on approach and frequent media appearances, often making headlines for his bold statements and actions. His tenure has seen both successes and controversies, reflecting his complex relationship with the sport.

Political Career

George  Becali’s political journey began in 2000 when he ran for a seat in the Romanian Parliament. He later founded the New Generation – Christian Democrat Party (PNG-CD) in 2004 and served as its president. His political career included a term as a Member of the European Parliament from 2009 to 2012. In 2012, he was elected to the Romanian Parliament but was convicted in 2013, leading to his departure from politics for a period. In 2024, he returned to the political scene as a member of the Chamber of Deputies for the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), though he left the party in 2025 due to disagreements over its direction.

Controversies and Public Image

George Becali’s career has been marred by numerous controversies. In 2010, he made public statements that Steaua would never employ a gay footballer, leading to a complaint by the Romanian gay rights organization ACCEPT. The National Council for Combating Discrimination upheld the complaint but imposed no fine due to legal technicalities. In 2006, he opposed the Bucharest GayFest parade, stating that he “doesn’t discriminate against homosexuals” but that the event was “proselytism.” These incidents have contributed to his reputation as a polarizing figure.

His public persona is characterized by his outspoken and often provocative statements. He has made headlines for his comments on various social and political issues, reflecting his conservative Orthodox Christian views. These remarks have sparked debates and discussions, further cementing his status as a controversial public figure.

Family Life

George Becali is married to Luminița, and the couple has three daughters: Teodora, Alexandra, and Cristina. He is known to be a devoted family man, often expressing his love and pride for his children. In 2019, he gifted his daughter Teodora one million euros for her wedding, showcasing his generosity and commitment to his family’s well-being.

Age and Personal Details

As of September 30, 2025, Gigi Becali is 67 years old. He was born on June 25, 1958, under the zodiac sign Cancer. His life path number is 9, often associated with humanitarianism and idealism. Becali’s personal life reflects his complex character, balancing his public persona with his private values and beliefs.

Conclusion

George Becali”Gigi” Becali’s life is a tapestry of ambition, controversy, and influence. From his humble beginnings to his rise as a billionaire businessman and political figure, he has left an indelible mark on Romanian society. His involvement in football, politics, and philanthropy, coupled with his outspoken nature, has made him a subject of both admiration and criticism. As he continues to navigate the complexities of public life, Becali remains a significant and polarizing figure in Romania’s contemporary history.

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