Vagit Alekperov

Vagit Alekperov, born on September 1, 1950, is a prominent Russian entrepreneur, engineer, and economist of Azerbaijani descent. He is best known for his long-standing leadership role at Lukoil, one of Russia's largest oil companies, where he served as president from 1993 until 2022. Under his guidance, Lukoil grew to become a significant player in the global oil market.

With an estimated net worth of twenty billion seven hundred million dollars as of March 2025, Alekperov is recognized as the wealthiest individual in Russia and ranks sixty-third globally according to Forbes magazine. His financial acumen and strategic investments have solidified his status as a leading figure in the business world.

Alekperov's interests extend beyond the oil industry; he previously held a substantial stake in the renowned football club Spartak Moscow, showcasing his diverse investment portfolio. His close association with fellow former Spartak owner Leonid Fedun highlights his connections within the sports and business communities.

In addition to his ventures in oil and sports, Alekperov was the owner of Heesen Yachts, a luxury superyacht builder, until 2022. However, his business activities have faced challenges due to international sanctions imposed by countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand in response to the geopolitical climate following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.