Post by Thierry De Ridder

In November 2025, I officially passed the baton at Golazo Brands Netherlands to Erik Poel. A transition carefully prepared to ensure continuity, reinforce local leadership, and equip the team with everything needed to move forward with confidence and ambition. After a nine-month journey, I consciously chose to take a break. Time to step back, recharge, and reflect. A rare but essential pause to let experiences settle, regain perspective, and realign energy and vision—something we too often postpone in leadership roles. My time in the Netherlands was about far more than the Managing Director title. It was about building bridges—between people, disciplines, and countries—and demonstrating the strength of the Golazo model: combining strong local creativity with the power of an international sports ecosystem. Cross-border collaborations clearly showed what’s possible when we truly operate as one network. Today, I’m back full-time at Golazo Brands Belgium, with a fresh mindset and renewed motivation. A new chapter begins—different in shape, yet just as challenging, exciting, and rich in experience. It’s preparation for what comes next. And 2026 already looks bright and promising. See you soon, Thierry