Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and FIFA President Gianni Infantino have agreed to establish a FIFA office for Central Asia in Tashkent.
During the talks, Infantino congratulated Mirziyoyev on Uzbekistan’s historic qualification for the World Cup, which will be held across several countries in the Americas next year.
According to the presidential press service, the two sides discussed ways to expand cooperation with FIFA, focusing on reforming the organisation and management of football in Uzbekistan. Particular attention was given to joint projects aimed at promoting the sport among young people. FIFA has already supported the launch of a football centre in the country.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Mirziyoyev awarded Infantino the «Dustlik» (“Friendship”) medal in recognition of his contribution to advancing Uzbekistan’s presence on the global football stage.
Infantino’s visit also included a tour of Tashkent’s Olympic Village and attendance at the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 final.
Earlier, Kursiv Uzbekistan reported that Paulo Bento declined an offer to coach Uzbekistan’s national team ahead of their debut at the 2026 World Cup.
