May 14 – The first football pitch in North Macedonia under the global “FIFA Arena” initiative was officially inaugurated today with a ceremony in Bosilovo. This project is part of a broader FIFA initiative to develop grassroots football and improve facilities for children and youth worldwide.
The opening ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including the President of the Football Federation of North Macedonia (FFM), Masar Omeragic, FFM General Secretary Leonid Jendreoski, and FIFA’s Director for National Associations, Elkhan Mamedov. They were joined by local government representatives, former football players, and children from local football academies.
In his address, FFM President Omeragic emphasised that every new pitch represents a fresh opportunity and inspiration for younger generations. “This is not just an investment in infrastructure, but an investment in the future of our children—in their health, socialization, and proper development,” Omeragikj stated.
He also expressed his gratitude to FIFA and its President, Gianni Infantino, for its support in bringing this project to North Macedonia.
FIFA representative Mamedov highlighted the global vision behind the initiative, noting that the goal is to install 1,000 such pitches worldwide. “Every boy and girl deserves the chance to play football and have a safe place to learn the game. This new pitch is a gift to the children of Macedonia, especially those in urban and rural areas with fewer opportunities,” said Mamedov.
The new facility will be utilised by local football schools and teams participating in the “Football in Schools” project. The FFM leadership confirmed that Bosilovo and Turnovo are among the first to benefit, with plans to expand the “FIFA Arena” project to many other municipalities in the near future.
Contact the writer of this story, Alexander Krassimirov, at [email protected]