Olga Yurevna Lysova may not be a household name, but her early influence on one of Russia’s most powerful businessmen, Roman Abramovich, is undeniable. Born on April 6, 1965, in the historic city of Astrakhan, Russia, Olga Yurevna Lysova grew up in a family deeply connected to government affairs. Her father’s career as a senior diplomat exposed her to political environments and international cultures early on—an experience that would later shape her approach to business and relationships.
Early Motherhood Journey
Before meeting Abramovich, Olga Yurevna Lysova had already started building her own life. In her youth, she was in a relationship with an actor, which led to the birth of her daughter, Nastya. Becoming a single mother at a young age presented challenges, but it also brought clarity to her ambitions. Olga chose personal growth, determination, and independence over dependence on anyone’s fame or fortune.
Meeting Roman Abramovich
A key moment in Olga’s life happened in 1987. While dining in a restaurant in Ukhta, she met Roman Abramovich, who was only 20 at the time. Olga was 23, already a mother, and had lived through far more. Despite these differences, their chemistry was immediate.
Later that year, the two got married. Their relationship quickly evolved into both a personal and business partnership. This short-lived union—just three years—would go on to play a critical role in Abramovich’s first steps toward becoming a billionaire.
Plastic Doll Business
During their marriage, Olga Yurevna Lysova became an active part of Abramovich’s first major venture: a plastic doll manufacturing business. This was far more than a side hustle. It was their first taste of entrepreneurship, and it gave Abramovich the confidence and capital to later dive into the oil and aluminum industries.
Their teamwork in this business proved that Olga was not just a supportive spouse—she was a partner with insight and vision.
Why They Divorced
By 1990, the marriage had come to an end. Several factors contributed to the divorce, including financial pressures and an abandoned plan to emigrate to Canada. As Abramovich’s ambitions grew, so did the complexity of their relationship. Despite the breakup, the short time they spent together left a lasting impact on his journey to global success.
Life After Abramovich
Olga Yurevna Lysova moved forward, choosing a quieter life in Moscow. She invested in real estate and later managed the career of her new husband, musician Stefan Stefanovich. From managing apartments on Tsvetnoi Boulevard to handling her husband’s professional commitments, Olga demonstrated her business instincts were not tied to Abramovich’s wealth alone.
Strong Family Bonds
Her daughter, Nastya, remained a central figure in her life. Despite changes in family dynamics and media attention surrounding Abramovich, Olga’s focus on maintaining a stable and loving environment for her daughter never wavered.
FAQs About Olga Lysova
Who is Olga Yurevna Lysova?
She is the first wife of Roman Abramovich and played a major role in his early business ventures.
Did she have a career after divorce?
Yes. She invested in real estate and managed the career of her musician husband.
Does she have children?
Yes. She has a daughter named Nastya from a previous relationship before marrying Abramovich.
What business did she help Abramovich start?
They co-founded a plastic doll manufacturing business, which was Abramovich’s first successful venture.
Is she involved in Abramovich’s current life?
No. After their divorce in 1990, Olga chose to live privately and remains out of the public spotlight.
Olga Yurevna Lysova’s story is one of strength, strategy, and self-reliance. While Roman Abramovich became globally known for owning Chelsea FC and amassing billions, Olga helped spark his journey. And then she walked her own path—raising a daughter, investing wisely, and proving that success doesn’t always come with fame. Her resilience and independence make her a noteworthy figure in her own right.