President Rahmon Opens State-of-the-Art Football Federation Technical Center in Varzob
Varzob, The Gulf Observer: President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon and Chairman of the Majlisi Milli Majlisi Oli, Rustam Emomali, on Monday inaugurated the new Technical Center of the Football Federation of Tajikistan in Varzob District, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to promote football and strengthen sports infrastructure.
Officials said the facility was established to create favorable conditions for the comprehensive development of football in Tajikistan, including the training of players, coaches, referees, and sports specialists, as well as the advancement of children’s, youth, women’s, and professional football.
Built on a 62,000-square-meter site, the complex features modern and multifunctional sports infrastructure, including two training fields—one with natural grass and the other with artificial turf—as well as a stadium, tennis court, gymnastics area, sports arena, indoor swimming pool, and jogging track.
The complex is divided into sports and administrative-residential zones. The main building houses a fitness center equipped with modern sports equipment, conference and meeting halls, a restaurant and café, hotel accommodations, administrative offices, and other facilities designed to support athletes, officials, and visitors.
The Technical Center offers modern single, double, and suite accommodations, along with spacious verandas and amenities aimed at ensuring comfortable stays for guests and sports professionals.
The project was constructed with technical and financial support from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and domestic partners. The facility has also created 50 permanent jobs.
Speaking at the inauguration, officials highlighted that the establishment of the center aligns with the country’s broader strategy to promote sports and healthy lifestyles, while strengthening football development nationwide.
The Football Federation of Tajikistan became a member of FIFA and the AFC in 1994 following the country’s independence. Since 2012, under the leadership of Football Federation President Rustam Emomali, Tajik football has undergone significant modernization through the implementation of strategic development programs and infrastructure projects.
Over the past decade, international-standard stadiums and football fields have been built, new leagues established, specialist training programs expanded, and women’s football strengthened. Training courses involving FIFA and AFC experts have also contributed to improving standards across the sport.
The federation’s efforts have yielded notable achievements, including the national U-19 team reaching the quarterfinals of the AFC U-19 Championship in 2016 and 2018, the U-17 team winning a silver medal in 2018 and qualifying for the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup, and the senior national team capturing the King’s Cup title in Thailand in 2022.
Authorities also highlighted Tajikistan’s growing role in international football diplomacy. Following a proposal by Rustam Emomali in his capacity as President of the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA), the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on May 7, 2024, declaring May 25 as World Football Day.
Officials said the initiative further enhanced Tajikistan’s international standing as a country promoting peace, friendship, and solidarity through sport.
The inauguration of the Technical Center is expected to provide a major boost to football development in Tajikistan and support the country’s long-term ambitions in regional and international competitions.
