Today, the “House of Football” hosted UEFA’s “Football in Schools” festival. First, UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin joined Albanian Football Federation (FSHF) President Armand Duka along with UEFA’s Executive Committee members.

Moreover, UEFA ambassadors Luís Figo and Aljoša Asanović, FSHF ambassador Jahmir Hyka, former players, local students, and parents energized the event. As the festival began, children welcomed President Čeferin and President Duka with a lively guard of honor.

Then, the festival featured a football match where Čeferin, Figo, Asanović, Albania’s coach Silvinho, assistants Zabaleta and Doriva, Hyka, and local school kids played together. This moment showcased that football belongs to everyone.

After the match, Čeferin and Duka addressed Albanian media ahead of UEFA’s historic Executive Committee meeting in Tirana.

During his speech, Čeferin urged people to unite through football and reject those who exploit the game.

He clearly stated, “Football and sport must unite people. We must push out those ‘idiots’ who use football to spread absurd ideas. They don’t love football—they love only themselves.”

When asked about UEFA’s decision to hold the Executive Committee meeting in Tirana, Čeferin explained that this is the third or fourth meeting outside Switzerland. He also praised Albania’s role and jokingly said Albania earned a “bronze medal.”

Furthermore, Čeferin praised Albania’s football infrastructure, especially the national stadium. He encouraged people to speak with President Duka about future UEFA projects but highlighted Albania’s strong facilities and his great partnership with Duka.

To young players across Europe, Čeferin advised, “Work hard. Stay longer in your domestic leagues. Many rush abroad too early and cut their careers short.”

Meanwhile, President Duka thanked Čeferin and called the event historic. He honored Albania’s football community for its hard work and added that the festival will inspire kids to love football.

Luis Figo expressed joy at returning to Tirana. He praised young Albanian players and urged them to balance education with sport.

Similarly, Asanović called the program a fantastic opportunity for kids and schools. He applauded Albania’s progress and the national team’s performance at Euro 2024.

Lastly, FSHF ambassador Jahmir Hyka praised the event’s organization and turnout. He stressed the need to teach kids love and respect for football first. Hyka believes these efforts will build a stronger future for Albanian football.

/a.c/