Turning points in Uzbek sports: new leadership and notable updates

Uzbekistan’s sports governance witnessed significant changes, marking a new era in its development. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has assumed the position of Chairman of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Uzbekistan, with his son-in-law, Otabek Umarov, appointed as First Deputy Chairman. This transition, along with updates in global and local sports, has made headlines this week.

Mirziyoyev Leads the NOC, Umarov Becomes First Deputy

On November 25, during the General Assembly of the NOC, Shavkat Mirziyoyev was unanimously elected Chairman of the Committee. The assembly also appointed Otabek Umarov as First Deputy Chairman, Sherzod Toshmatov as Deputy Chairman, and Oybek Kasimov as Secretary General.

The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, Presidential Administration Head Odil Abdurakhmonov, Minister of Sports Adham Ikramov, and other prominent officials and sports representatives.

Art Meets Uzbek Culture in International Sports

Famed cartoonist Hamid Sahari integrated Uzbek culture into his latest work, featuring Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior in a heartfelt animation. The piece includes Junior by a campfire, lamenting over missing the Ballon d’Or, accompanied by teammate Eduardo Camavinga playing the guitar and singing the Uzbek song Kozmunchog’im by Doston Ergashev.

Ergashev expressed his gratitude to Sahari for popularizing Uzbek music, to which Sahari responded with appreciation for Ergashev’s artistry.

Uzbekistan’s FIFA Ranking Remains Stable

In the updated FIFA rankings, Uzbekistan’s national football team retained its 58th position globally, with 424.93 points. In November, the team recorded one win and one loss. Within Asia, Uzbekistan ranks seventh, following powerhouses Japan, Iran, and South Korea.

The global ranking remains led by Argentina, followed by France, Spain, England, and Brazil.

FIFA’s Best Players and Coaches of 2024 Announced

The International Football Federation (FIFA) revealed its nominees for “The Best” awards for 2024.

Among the contenders for the best player are Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior.

Coaches such as Pep Guardiola, Lionel Scaloni, and Carlo Ancelotti are vying for the best coach award. The winners will be announced in January 2025.

Uzbekistan’s Best Players and Coaches of 2024 Nominated

The Uzbekistan Football Association unveiled its nominees for the country’s best player and coach of the year. Among the 14 candidates for the best player are Eldor Shomurodov, Abbosbek Fayzullayev, and Jaloliddin Masharipov.

For the best coach, the nominees include Mirjalol Qosimov, Rozikul Berdiev, and Temur Kapadze. Nominees for women’s football and futsal were also disclosed, showcasing the growing diversity in Uzbekistan’s sports landscape.

This week’s developments signify a pivotal moment for Uzbekistan’s sports industry, reflecting a blend of renewed leadership, cultural integration, and global recognition.