He wrote a letter to the club's supporters confirming his decision
Zeljko Obradovic resigns as Partizan head coach
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Through a statement posted on Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade's website, Zeljko Obradovic has confirmed his resignation as head coach.
The decision came after Partizan's Round 13 defeat at Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens, which left the team in 18th position in the standings with a 4-9 record.
Obradovic's second spell at Partizan thus comes to an end, having started his coaching career there (1991-93) before making a legendary return to the club in 2021.
The winningest coach in EuroLeague history with nine EuroLeague titles to his name, including one with Partizan in 1992, Obradovic was at the helm as Partizan marked its return to the EuroLeague in 2022. That season, led by the likes of Mathias Lessort, Kevin Punter and Dante Exum, the team reached the EuroLeague Playoffs and went to Game 5 against Real Madrid.
Partizan narrowly missed out on the postseason the following season, finishing 11th with a 16-18 record, before once again failing to reach the postseason last year, ending the campaign 12th with an identical 16-18 mark. The start to the 2025-26 campaign, with Partizan languishing towards the bottom of the standings, has seen Obradovic decide that it is time to step away.
Zeljko Obradovic and his letter to the Partizan fans
Dear Partizan fans,
Four and a half years ago, I returned to my beloved club and together with you set out to live the most beautiful dream. My wish and goal were for our Partizan to once again, after 10 years, become part of the EuroLeague — and we all succeeded in doing so together. The games of our beloved club have become something more than basketball, thanks to you, who deserve the most credit for that. Unfortunately, the moment has come when I had to take responsibility for all the bad things that happened this season and submit my irrevocable resignation.
I would like to thank everyone who has supported our club over these years — the club president and all members of the Board of Directors, everyone working within the club, as well as all our sponsors.
I am very grateful to all the players who have been with us during these four and a half years, to the members of my coaching staff (whom I have often said are the best I’ve ever had), and of course, a great thanks to all Partizan fans!
Thank you for the unconditional support, respect and love you have given me all these years, in every moment and every situation!
Always one of you, forever grateful!
Željko Obradović