Tokayev called for raising Kazakhstani football to a new level

Tengrinews.kz - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev raised the issue of the level of football in Kazakhstan at the fourth session of the National Kurultai in Burabay.

The Head of State emphasized the importance of developing football infrastructure in the country, noting the need to reconstruct old and build new stadiums, as well as create conditions for children to play sports.

"Representatives of the Akmola region traditionally make a great contribution to the country's collection at world and continental competitions in winter sports. Here, I consider it necessary to pay special attention to the development of football throughout the country. Most regional stadiums should be reconstructed, or the construction of new football stadiums should begin with the involvement of sponsorship funds.

Children's football grounds should appear in each regional, district center, in towns and villages. This is a task for the next two years. We will check its implementation," the Head of State said at the fourth session of the National Kurultai in Burabay.

Photo: Akorda press service

According to him, this is the only way to raise this popular sport all over the world, which is social and mass, to a new level.

"By attracting children and young men to football, we will be able to largely solve the problem of gambling addiction and drug addiction. The relevant ministry, the Football Federation, local executive bodies, and entrepreneurs should begin to commercialize club football in practical terms. Clubs should not rely only on regional budgets; they need to learn to earn money themselves, as is happening all over the world," he emphasized.

The president also called on entrepreneurs to look at Kazakhstani club football as a business, as is happening all over the world.

"World experience shows that without privatization, things will not move forward. If the clubs are private, they will have the right to invite foreign athletes. The popularization of sports, especially among children and young people, is the key to the health of our nation. In recent years, thanks to state support, children's sports have received a good boost, but this is not enough. I think that business can also make a big contribution to introducing the younger generation to physical culture and sports," added Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Photo: Akorda press service

Recall that the previous three meetings of the kurultai were held in Ulytau, Turkestan, and Atyrau. This year, a large-scale event is being held in Burabay.

The two-day session of the National Kurultai brings together government officials, public figures, and experts to discuss key issues shaping the country’s future.