On August 2nd, 1954, a pivotal decision was made to build the 10th-Anniversary Stadium in Warsaw, a grand monument to Polish communism. The stadium, designed by Jerzy Hryniewiecki and his team, rose swiftly from the rubble of post-war Warsaw. Opened on July 22, 1955, it was more than just a sports facility; it was a stage for the communist regime to connect with the people, hosting numerous events, from sports to propaganda.

One of the most enduring symbols of this era is the Sztafeta sculpture by Adam Roman, situated near the Washington Roundabout at the entrance to the National Stadium. Depicting three relay runners, the statue captures the spirit of teamwork and perseverance. Originally intended for the Central Park of Culture in Powiśle, it was relocated to the stadium entrance at the suggestion of Professor Jerzy Hryniewiecki.

Inspired by François Rude’s La Marseillaise and Greek vase drawings, Roman added a third runner to the design. The sculpture, hastily made of concrete on a steel frame, was unveiled alongside the stadium in 1955. Despite its rapid deterioration, the statue was restored in 2008, a testament to its lasting significance.

The Sztafeta embodies the historical and cultural transformations of Poland. While the stadium itself was demolished in 2008 to make way for the National Stadium, the sculpture remains, bridging the past with the present. It stands as a poignant reminder of Poland’s journey through history, from the heights of socialist ambition to its modern-day renaissance