Esther Sedlaczek: She says goodbye to Ulli Potofski

Sport moderator Esther Sedlaczek (39) said goodbye to Ulli Potofski (1952-2025). The popular football commentator died on Sunday at the age of 73 after a serious illness. “The tears have not yet dried, but what remains are endlessly many wonderful memories of our time together and of you as unique people,” writes the moderator in her touching article, in which she published several photos with Potofski.

She further explains: “You took me by the hand when I came to this ‘television’ completely disoriented. You gave me the room at your side to develop myself.” She had no vanity and no competitive thinking on her colleague’s side. He was authentic, sincere, honest and loving. “You weren’t just a companion and colleague. You were my ‘television papa’ and I was your ‘television daughter’,” Sedlaczek describes the familiar connection to the sports journalist with whom she worked together at Sky. “That may sound kitschy, but that’s exactly how it was. And it will always stay that way.”

Potofski will not only lack the television world with its inimitable way as a sports reporter, “but so many as the special person you were,” writes the 39-year-old at the end of her post. “We’ll see you up there again and then hopefully you will take me so openly and warmly again and show me a new world.”

“What nice words in memory of such a great colleague,” commented moderator Matthias Killing (45). Moderator Miriam Lange (45) was also compassionate: “Evidence and beautifully written and really a big loss.”

Potofski has been a fixture at Sky since 2006 and accompanied countless Bundesliga games, the DFB Cup and the second division. The native of Rhineland had originally considered ending his career in 2023, but then extended his contract again. TV viewers also saw Potofski in the RTL format “Let’s Dance”. In 2016 he took part in the ninth season of the dance show and became fan favorite of the season.

“Let’s Dance” Juror Joachim Llambi (61) has already spoken publicly. “I will never forget to experience yourself, to hear you, laugh with you and spend so many wonderful hours with you,” he wrote in a touching Instagram post. Potofski was “one of my absolute favorite candidates”, Llambi said to a black and white photo from the show. “Not because you shone dancing, that may not be your greatest strength. But your humor, your charm, your warmth, that was unique. Your appearance was heart. Locality. Size.”