Tural Piriyev, Executive Director of the Football Development Foundation (FDF), gave interview to Report.az.
– FDF has published a three-year report. How would you assess the organization’s performance during this period?
– I evaluate our work positively. I hope the football community shares this view. We have achieved certain results, introduced innovations, and tried to give equal attention to all regional representatives. Most importantly, I believe we have demonstrated that FDF is a crucial tool for the development of football in the country, especially in the regions.
– What are the organization’s goals for the coming years?
– The main goal remains to establish sustainable clubs that can stand on their own. We are currently defining the areas that FDF will focus on in line with AFFA’s Development Strategy. Our efforts will be aimed both at long-term goals—such as developing clubs as sustainable entities, improving the skills and knowledge of staff, and training professionals in sports management—and at short-term outcomes like forming financial channels and attracting sponsors and partners.
– FDF has mostly helped regional clubs secure sponsors. Are there ongoing discussions with any clubs in this regard?
– Our efforts to attract sponsors for regional clubs will continue. We aim to expand relationships with both the corporate sector and local entrepreneurs. There are potential sponsors with whom we are in discussions regarding certain clubs. The "Business Club" format also helps us maintain ongoing relationships with entrepreneurs.
– Three more regional clubs – Karvan, Gabala, and Imishli – have been promoted to the Premier League for next season. Will they receive support as well?
– Karvan and Imishli are among the clubs we have individually collaborated with. Last season, we worked with both clubs to develop “matchday” products. Especially in Yevlakh, we had a good experience with electronic ticket sales, building a fan database, and establishing two-way communication with supporters. We will continue working on enhancing the “matchday” experience. So far, we haven’t had the opportunity to provide individual support to Gabala, but we plan to meet with the club to discuss potential support for the upcoming season.
– FDF has once again been awarded by UEFA’s Children's Foundation and received a grant of €38,500. How will this amount be used?
– We plan to spend this amount mainly on seminars to enhance the knowledge and skills of club staff, as well as on the educational platform we are currently developing.
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