The President of the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA), Gianni Infantino, sent a sincere and respectful congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. This congratulation was announced in connection with the Uzbekistan national team qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in its history.
In his letter, Gianni Infantino specifically acknowledged that the Uzbekistan national team was the first in the Asian region to secure a spot in the FIFA World Cup, which will take place in 2026 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
The FIFA president wrote the following words in his letter:
“Your Excellency, esteemed President! Yesterday, Uzbekistan football earned the right to participate in the FIFA World Cup for the first time in its rich history. With this victory, Uzbekistan became one of the first teams in Asia to have a worthy qualification to take its place on the world stage.
With this remarkable and unprecedented achievement, I personally and on behalf of the entire football world sincerely congratulate you and all the fans of Uzbekistan from the bottom of my heart. I would like to emphasize that the success of your national team is not only the result of the players but also the unity and efforts of your government, the Uzbekistan Football Association, the head coach of the national team, club management, staff, and of course, the millions of fans who passionately supported their favorite team in every match.
The achievement of this historic victory is extremely important for the development of football throughout Uzbekistan and for increasing the interest and confidence of future generations in football. The Uzbekistan national team has proven itself worthy of qualifying for the World Cup through many stages and in tough and fierce competitions. This success marks the beginning of a new era in the country's football.
We are pleased that under your leadership, Uzbekistan football is significantly developing not only in Asia but also internationally, becoming an integral part of world football. FIFA is always ready to support Uzbekistan's efforts in the field of football.
Dear President, once again I wish you and the entire Uzbek people great success in the 2026 World Cup. I hope that the Uzbekistan national team will take a worthy place in this major international competition. Also, Your Excellency, I sincerely look forward to the opportunity to meet with you again.”
The FIFA president's congratulation became another source of pride and satisfaction for the entire people of Uzbekistan.
The Uzbekistan national team played a 0:0 draw with the UAE on June 5 in the 9th round of the World Cup qualifiers, securing a spot in the World Cup. This will be Uzbekistan's first World Cup in history. On the same day, Shavkat Mirziyoyev called Timur Kapadze, the head coach of the Uzbekistan national football team, and congratulated the players who secured the World Cup qualification for the first time in their history. Additionally, FIFA President Gianni Infantino also congratulated the Uzbek players.
