Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, President of the Qatar Football Federation, issued an official statement affirming that the stability and cohesion of Asian football depend on a governance model grounded in continuous consultation, mutual respect, and prudent institutional governance. He explained that the message sent to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) contains a fundamental question regarding the official mechanisms for formulating joint positions that represent the national member associations collectively.
Call for Prudent Governance
Sheikh Hamad highlighted that the strength and unity of Asian football hinge on adopting a methodology based on ongoing consultation, mutual respect, and sound institutional governance. He emphasized that this initiative aims to establish a unified governance framework that ensures the sport’s stability across the continent.
Ensuring Active Participation
He noted that recent communications to the AFC included a legitimate and essential query about the official mechanisms for drafting shared stances. The proposal is not aimed at specific individuals nor tied to the degree of agreement or disagreement of associations with a particular stance; it fundamentally focuses on guaranteeing active participation for all member associations.
Constructive and Brotherhood-Oriented Approach
Sheikh Hamad stressed that the remarks were presented in a constructive manner, with a brotherly message that respects the AFC and its officials. The goal is to support the common interest, strengthen governance frameworks, and solidify the unity and credibility of the continental football system.
Wider Context
This statement comes amid ongoing dialogue between Qatar and the AFC, as Qatar seeks to enhance its role in developing the sport across the continent. The recent AFC summit underscored the importance of cooperation among all national member associations to ensure sustainable growth of the sport.
Conclusion
Sheikh Hamad reaffirms that unity in Asian football can only be achieved through prudent governance, continuous consultation, and mutual respect. The message to the AFC aims to open new avenues for active participation of all member associations in formulating shared positions.
