SPORT IN UZBEKISTAN, ESPECIALLY FOOTBALL, IS BECOMING NOT ONLY A COMPETITION OR A GAME, BUT ALSO AN IMPORTANT SOCIAL VALUE THAT UNITES THE NATION

 

In Uzbekistan, sport, especially football, is increasingly demonstrating its importance not only as a competition or a game, but also as a significant social value that brings people together. This was once again clearly reflected during the farewell ceremony for the Uzbekistan national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held with the participation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The ceremonial event attended by the Head of State became one of the significant milestones in the history of Uzbek football. In his address, the President emphasized that the national team’s qualification for the World Cup was the result of large-scale reforms and a systematic policy of state support for sport, particularly football.

In recent years, the measures implemented in the country to support sport at the state level, develop modern infrastructure, expand the activities of football academies, and promote mass participation in sport among young people have produced tangible results. In particular, the President noted that sports facilities and professional football academies have been established in every region, the National Football Center has begun its operations, and the Olympic Village and a new stadium meeting FIFA standards are being constructed in Tashkent.

The results of sociological studies conducted by the Republican Center for the Study of Public Opinion “Ijtimoiy Fikr” also indicate a high level of public interest in sport, especially football. According to public opinion analysis, a significant proportion of citizens view sport as an important factor in educating young people in the spirit of patriotism, determination, and commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Of particular significance is the fact that the national team has qualified for the World Cup for the first time in its history. This achievement has further strengthened feelings of national pride, unity, and confidence in the future among the population. Sociological observations show that football is perceived not only as a sport, but also as a cultural and social phenomenon that contributes to strengthening social cohesion.

The high assessment given by the President to the supporters’ movement and the activities of fan clubs is also in line with prevailing public sentiment. The Head of State described the supporters as the national team’s “twelfth player.”

Today, football in Uzbekistan has become an integral part of the lives of many families and a symbol of dreams, aspirations, and new opportunities for young people. The participation of the national team on the international stage is regarded not only as a sporting achievement, but also as an important social event that enhances the country’s international standing, unites society, and inspires the younger generation.