
UEFA has dedicated a special article to the biggest investment in the history of Albanian sports, the "Air Albania" stadium. The impact that its construction had, both from a sporting point of view, but also from a social and economic point of view, is the focus of the title that UEFA has dedicated to the "Air Albania" stadium, which includes the President of the AFL Armand Duka and the captain of the Albanian National Team. Berat Gjimshiti. The "Air Albania" stadium, built with the funds of the AFL and the HatTrick program of UEFA, has had an extraordinary impact on the Albanian National Team, which ensured its participation in the European Championship for the second time.
UEFA emphasizes that the "Air Albania" stadium, inaugurated in 2019, has become an invincible fortress for the Reds and Blacks who during the qualifiers achieved 3 wins and a draw, 7 goals scored and none conceded at home.
The president of the AFL, Armand Duka, during his statement to UEFA regarding the giant investment of the "Air Albania" stadium, emphasized that it has affected the performance of the national team and the great support from the fans has turned into a nightmare for every opposing team.
" The modern facilities and professional environment have significantly increased the morale and performance of the players. The stadium's high-level training facilities have enabled more effective preparation and recovery, while the passionate home support has created an intimidating atmosphere for opposing teams, offering our players a psychological advantage, " President Duka said.
UEFA further emphasizes that the stadium in the heart of Tirana is much more than a sports ground. It is a symbol of the AFL's strategic plan for the development of the national football infrastructure and a catalyst for the revitalization of the local economy, which is also confirmed by President Duka.
" The construction of the "Air Albania" stadium was a visionary step aimed at transforming the landscape of Albanian football. It is also a key part of the cultural and social structure of the city, important for the revitalization of the local community in Tirana " - emphasized President Duka.
UEFA adds that during the qualifying campaign for "EURO 2024" the "Air Albania" stadium was overcrowded and the increase in income has opened a new investment cycle for the AFL.
" The success of our national team, embodied by their achievements at the "Air Albania" stadium, serves as a powerful inspiration for future footballers throughout the country. We have undertaken numerous initiatives to capitalize on this momentum, including grassroots football programmes, partnerships with schools and academies. By creating new paths and opportunities, we aim to encourage a new generation of football enthusiasts " - said President Duka.
The captain of the Albanian National Team, Berat Gjimshiti, in his statement for UEFA, confesses that the infrastructure is very good and contains everything a team needs to perform on the field.
" There is everything a team needs to perform on the field. The infrastructure is better, making it much easier for us and for the fans to spread their energy and support. It's like we have a 12th player that motivates us and pushes us forward. It has played a big role in our journey " - said Berat Gjimshiti.
Journalist Blendi Fevziu tells UEFA about the social impact of the construction of the "Air Albania" stadium, which today has become one of the main points of urban life in Tirana.
" Today, the area around the stadium is one of the main poles of urban life in Tirana. It has become one of the busiest areas of the city. If you consider the big activities like concerts and shows organized there, I believe it is the most important part of the city ."
The fans have also felt the positive impact of the stadium. Ardit Saliaj, part of the "Red and Black Fans" who support the national team everywhere, told UEFA about the improvement of the conditions in the "Air Albania" stadium, which directly affects the wonderful atmosphere that is created in this stadium.
" The conditions in the new stadium are completely different compared to the old stadium. The architectural work is perfectly combined with the activities of the fans, making the atmosphere even more wonderful. The moments we are spending in this modern building have brought us a lot of joy. Qualifying for the European Championship is a dream, Albanians can't achieve it often " - said Ardit Saliaj.
At the end, UEFA adds: "Air Albania" Stadium hosted the first historic final of the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2022, giving thousands of people the opportunity to experience a major European football final in their country. Hundreds more became involved as volunteers, laying the groundwork for the AFL's creation of a volunteer soccer program.
Lini një Përgjigje