TIRANA, Sept 12 /ATA/ The Football Federation hosted a formal dinner last night at the Palace of Brigades, attended by Prime Minister Edi Rama and high-ranking European football officials, who were in Tirana for the most recent UEFA Executive Committee meeting.
In his greeting remarks, UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin highlighted the progress of Albanian football and Albania itself. He once again emphasized the powerful message that football and sport should unite people.
“Visiting Albania is always a pleasure. Each time I come, I notice improvements in infrastructure and new developments taking shape. I still don’t understand why Albania hasn’t joined the European Union yet — but I believe you’re getting close,” he said.
“Football is progressing remarkably here, thanks to the dedicated work of the Albanian Football Federation, my good friend Armand, and the government’s support,” Čeferin remarked. “I truly appreciate this amicable relationship, even though they can occasionally be quite persistent in urging me to award them a competition. However, I made it clear that such decisions are the responsibility of the Executive Committee, and I cannot make any promises,” he added.
The UEFA President stated that football unites people.
“Not only football, but sport in general brings people together. Sport must stand against violence and division. That’s why I’m pleased that Albania is co-hosting the UEFA U-21 European Championship in 2027 alongside Serbia. I’m also glad that we discussed with the Prime Minister the possibility—not just of a charity match—but of a game featuring veteran players from European Union countries and those soon to join the EU,” said President Čeferin.
The President of the Football Federation, Armand Duka, during the dinner organized in Tirana, expressed his honor at hosting this historic meeting for the first time in Albania. He emphasized the journey of Albanian football from modest infrastructure to modern standards, thanks to the support of the government and international partners, mentioning successes such as the UEFA Europa Conference League final and the organization of the U-17 European Championship.
President Duka praised the contribution of football clubs and leaders in the country, as well as the development of grassroots football and women’s football. The head of Albanian football emphasized the importance of co-hosting the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in 2027 with Serbia as an opportunity to showcase Albania’s capacity to organize major events and the role of football in bringing nations closer together.
President Duka thanked UEFA for its trust and support, emphasizing that Albania has already demonstrated its ability to host top-level events and is ready for major future challenges—including the ambition to one day host the UEFA Super Cup final in Tirana.
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