FIFA President congratulates Shavkat Mirziyoyev on Uzbekistan’s World Cup qualification

President of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), Gianni Infantino, has sent an official letter to the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

“Your Excellency,

“Dear President,

“Yesterday, Uzbekistan qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in its history, becoming one of the first Asian teams to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup.

“On behalf of the entire global football community, please allow me to congratulate you and all the people of Uzbekistan on this well-deserved and historic achievement.

“This remarkable success is the result of the collective efforts and determination of everyone involved. I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to you, your government, the Uzbekistan Football Association, the players, the coach, all staff and officials, and of course, the passionate fans.

“Honorable President, I wish you great success at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and I look forward to the opportunity to meet with Your Excellency again.”

Uzbekistan’s national team earned its first-ever World Cup ticket after drawing 0–0 with the United Arab Emirates in the ninth round of the qualifiers on June 5. This marks Uzbekistan’s debut appearance at a FIFA World Cup. On the same day, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev called Timur Kapadze, head coach of the national football team, to congratulate the players on this historic achievement. FIFA President Gianni Infantino also sent his congratulations to the Uzbek players.