Ravshan Ermatov: "We will make use of all our opportunities to host the Asian Cup"
It was reported that Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and the Kyrgyz Republic submitted a joint application to host the 2031 Asian Cup. In this regard, Ravshan Ermatov, the first vice-president of the Uzbekistan Football Association, answered questions from the football community.
— About the possibilities of hosting the Asian Cup:
— The Asian Cup is the most prestigious football tournament on our continent. Therefore, there are many countries vying for hosting rights. Currently, the AFC is accepting applications. In the next stage, they will be approved and officially announced. The process of studying the possibilities will begin thereafter. The AFC's special inspection will determine how well the candidate countries meet the requirements. The Asian Football Confederation supports the development of football in all regions of our continent. So far, the Asian Cup has been held in most regions among national teams. Central Asia has not yet hosted this tournament. We hope that the AFC will also present the opportunity to host its largest competition in our region.
— What requirements are placed on Asian Cup hosts, and are these countries ready for it?
— If we take the last few years into account, Uzbekistan has hosted three major competitions. When we submitted our candidacy for the U-20 and U-23 Asian Championships, the AFC initially considered how prepared we were. Later, after fulfilling all the requirements on time and with quality, there was no room for doubt. Hotels, logistics, transportation, and other areas were adapted to international standards. I believe we have gained the trust of the AFC in terms of organization.
We also have international-standard stadiums. However, we need larger-capacity stadiums. To host the most important matches of the Asian Cup, stadiums with a capacity of 40,000 to 50,000 are required. We are considering several projects in this regard. Our neighbors are also ready to provide all the necessary conditions. For example, the construction of a stadium designed for 51,000 spectators has begun in Bishkek, the capital of the Kyrgyz Republic. I am confident that if the tournament is entrusted to us, Central Asia will host one of the brightest forums in history.
— What positive aspects does hosting the Asian Cup have for us?
— First of all, it is a great celebration for football fans. Today, Asian football is developing. The best star players are coming to our continent to play, and Asians are making their way to the largest clubs in Europe. All of them will participate in the Asian Cup and hold unforgettable matches on our home grounds. Moreover, our national team will also strive to perform better on its territory. Our relations with neighboring brotherly countries will be further strengthened. The infrastructure of modern football will develop, and our specialists will gain international experience.
The attention of the global football community will be directed not only to our football but also to the tourism potential, culture, and history of our countries. In turn, there will be an opportunity to contribute to the prosperity of our country through football. Like all sectors, football will also develop only through complex and comprehensive actions. The impact of large projects will reach even the smallest football schools. Therefore, we will use all our opportunities to bring a tournament like the Asian Cup to our country, - quotes Ermatov's words the OFA press service.
