FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Albanian football in a video message during the “Golden Ball” Gala Evening, commending the achievements of Albanian football throughout 2024.

In his address, Infantino highlighted the remarkable performance at “Euro 2024,” the creation of the “Elite Youth Development Academy,” and other significant milestones that shaped 2024. He also expressed his wishes for the National Team’s success in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Below is the full message from FIFA President Infantino:

“Dear President, dear Armand, dear friends and colleagues from the Albanian Football Federation, what an incredible year 2024 has been for Albanian football!

There is so much to celebrate tonight. I can imagine how thrilled and inspired every Albanian fan around the world must be by the National Team’s performance at EURO 2024.

Returning to the EURO for the second time in three editions was an outstanding achievement. In such a tough group, the team has made you all immensely proud.

With 16 spots available for European teams at the FIFA World Cup 2026, you should feel truly optimistic about making history by qualifying for the tournament for the first time. I wish Coach Sylvinho and his team the best of luck in the upcoming qualifiers. And of course, the Women’s National Team should be equally ambitious with the goal of qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.

On-field success is, of course, a direct result of the tireless work of the Albanian Football Federation off the field, under the leadership of President Duka.

The “Elite Youth Development Academy,” which opened in September, will ensure sustained success in the years to come. The numerous tournaments organized throughout 2024 have helped fuel the growth of grassroots football nationwide. By giving your top talents—both girls and boys—the opportunity to compete against teams from other countries, you’re providing them, and all those involved in Albanian football, with invaluable chances to learn, develop, and shine.

This approach has been instrumental in increasing the number of teams and the frequency of the FIFA U-17 World Cups for both boys and girls. I look forward to seeing your efforts rewarded with Albania’s global representation in the near future.

Of course, players of all ages and skill levels need the right facilities and coaches, and I was impressed by the progress you’ve made in this area. A large number of fields have been established, two stadiums have been renovated, and high-level expertise has been brought in to share knowledge and best practices, ensuring your players receive the best possible training.

Furthermore, with the refereeing courses and European-level workshops you organized in 2024, it’s clear that football is thriving in your football-loving country. Without a doubt, it will continue to grow even more in 2025.

Once again, congratulations to the 2024 award winners for their remarkable achievements, and I wish everyone a wonderful evening.

Thank you so much! See you soon. A hug to all, and goodbye“.

/a.p./