President of the Albanian Football Federation, Armand Duka, shared a heartfelt New Year’s message for the Albanian football community, reflecting on the successes of 2024 and looking forward to ambitious goals for 2025.
In his address, President Duka highlighted key achievements, such as the Albanian National Team’s commendable participation in the EURO 2024 finals, the establishment of the “Elite Youth Development Academy,” and hosting four major UEFA meetings in Tirana. Additionally, Albania organized numerous international tournaments, invested in infrastructure and sports education, and continued to foster growth in youth football.
Looking ahead, he outlined significant events planned for 2025, including the FSHF Gala Night, hosting the U-17 European Championship across four Albanian cities, the UEFA Executive Committee meeting in Tirana, and qualification matches for the World Cup and Nations League for both men’s and women’s teams.
Message Highlights:
- Achievements in 2024:
- The National Team’s impactful presence at EURO 2024, showcasing national pride and unity.
- The Women’s National Team’s first-place finish in their group and promotion in the Nations League.
- Youth football growth, with 2,820 new players joining, raising the total to 23,171 registered footballers.
- Launch of the “Elite Youth Development Academy,” nurturing 37 talented young athletes.
- Albania hosted four significant UEFA events and 14 international tournaments, welcoming 30 teams from across Europe.
- Significant investments in football education and infrastructure, including 17 new fields, two renovated stadiums, and upgrades to five sports complexes, totaling €10 million in funding from UEFA and FIFA.
- Goals for 2025:
- Hosting the U-17 European Championship with Albania’s team as the host nation.
- Welcoming the UEFA Executive Committee meeting in Tirana for the first time.
- Supporting national teams in Nations League matches for the women’s team and World Cup qualifiers for the men’s team.
- Celebrating Albanian football’s best at the Golden Ball ceremony in January.
President Duka emphasized the importance of collaboration and thanked all contributors, from players and coaches to administrative staff, for their dedication and efforts. He also expressed hope that the new year would bring progress, including a long-awaited sponsorship law to support sports.
Closing Wishes:
“May 2025 bring health, prosperity, and happiness to all Albanian families. On behalf of the Albanian Football Federation, I wish you a joyful New Year. May it be bright and prosperous! Happy 2025!”
CREATED by:
“KORÇA BOOM”
