Gelu Crăcană, at 71 years old, opens the doors to his personal museum in the heart of Ceahlăul, reflecting on his more than two decades spent with the football club. Once a warehouseman and later a press officer, Crăcană shares unfiltered tales of match-fixing, cash-filled suitcases, and the enigmatic Gheorghe Ștefan, painting a vivid picture of a bygone era in Romanian football.
Located in a serene neighborhood near Piatra Neamț, Crăcană’s home is a treasure trove for any football aficionado. His deep bond with Ceahlăul is evident as he recounts memories with a passion that suggests the last match was played just moments ago. Crăcană, the club’s most devoted supporter, served as its warehouseman from 1993 to 1998 and then as a press officer from 2006 to 2016. His residence showcases a rich collection of memorabilia including jerseys, scarves, over 2,000 photographs, and an impressive volume of notes chronicling the club’s history.
The stories flow without pause: from the challenges faced by players like Florin Marin, who was raised in an orphanage, to the dramatic events surrounding match-fixing, including a controversial confrontation with Gheorghe Ștefan that involved chains and threats. Crăcană recalls, “I told him, ‘Let’s go to the cemetery. Back to back, ten steps, and we shoot.'” His candid anecdotes about players lost to poker debts and the shadowy dealings backstage offer a glimpse into a world that feels almost surreal today.
Whistleblower and Outcast: Crăcană’s Stand Against Corruption
During his tenure, Crăcană became known for his brave stance against the prevalent corruption in football. He reported match-fixing involving figures like Viorel Hizo and faced backlash for his accusations. “I was told, ‘You, the warehouse guy, are you telling me what to do?'” he recalls. Following his revelations, Crăcană was dismissed by Ștefan, prompting him to legally seal the club’s warehouse in protest.
Crăcană recounts that in 1993, while serving as a warehouseman, he was tasked with carrying a suitcase filled with cash, a common practice at the time to secure favorable outcomes in matches. “I was warned that my family couldn’t afford to repay what was in that suitcase,” he said. Despite the moral dilemmas, he reflects on these experiences with a complex mix of nostalgia and regret.
Record-Breaking Fan and Author
Aside from his football endeavors, Crăcană made headlines for entering the Guinness World Records with a massive shirt dedicated to player Florin Axinia, which spurred his interest in writing. “I’ve published nine books about football, chronicling the club’s journey and the evolution of the sport in our region,” he notes, revealing his passion for preserving Ceahlăul’s legacy.
Memories of Glory and Decline
As he reflects on the highs and lows of Ceahlăul, including their participation in the Intertoto Cup, Crăcană reveals the community spirit that surrounded the club. “When Gheorghe Ștefan was at the helm, we had a vibrant atmosphere. Fans filled the stadium from neighboring counties,” he remembers fondly, contrasting it with the present when the club faced decline under new management.
Ultimately, Crăcană’s connection to football transcends mere statistics; it’s about the relationships built, the memories forged, and the resilience shown in the face of adversity. “Even after the club’s fall, the players remember me fondly,” he concludes, highlighting the respect he commands from those who shared the pitch with him. Crăcană continues to be a crucial voice in the football community, fighting for transparency and justice in a sport he loves dearly.
