Football for all

Beyond the Pitch: Qatar’s Enduring Football Legacy and the Drive for Global Integrity

Ms. Nicky Crosby initiated the discussion, highlighting the profound impact of the World Cup in Qatar. Mr. Hani Ballan, CEO of Qatar Stars League, reflected on the tournament’s legacy, emphasizing the significant investment and effort made to showcase Qatar to the world. He expressed confidence in achieving further successes beyond the World Cup.

Mr. Ballan noted the growing passion for football in Qatar and the ambition to elevate the sport’s status. He explained that the World Cup successfully shifted global perceptions, demonstrating Qatar’s deep commitment to the sport and its culture. The event served as a powerful platform for cultural exchange and showcasing national capabilities.

Mr. Emanuel Macedo de Medeiros, Co-founder & Global CEO of SIGA, outlined his organization’s mission to usher sports into a new era. He stressed the paramount importance of integrity, transparency, accountability, and human rights in sports governance. SIGA aims to instigate a tranquil revolution within the global sports landscape.

Mr. Macedo de Medeiros acknowledged the significant challenges facing sports, including financial fair play, corruption, and tax evasion. He advocated for global solutions and robust regulatory reform. He emphasized the need for international organizations and governments to move beyond superficial engagement and actively tackle these systemic issues.

SIGA addresses these problems by presenting advanced universal systems for new governance, including comprehensive anti-corruption policies. Mr. Macedo de Medeiros highlighted their success in convincing international bodies to prioritize anti-corruption in sports. He stressed that financial integrity also requires member states to effectively implement recommendations.

Mr. Hani Ballan elaborated on the Qatar Stars League’s evolution. He explained that the strategy involved bringing in experienced players, not just for their skill but also as mentors, to add value and improve the league’s quality. This approach focuses on developing local talent and elevating the overall standard of play.

Addressing the role of technology, Mr. Ballan affirmed its indispensability in modern football. He mentioned the QSL’s pioneering adoption of VAR in Asia and other goal-line technologies. He believes technology offers opportunities for correction and transformation, enhancing the game’s fairness and appeal for all stakeholders.

Mr. Ballan emphasized that while technology is crucial, the human element and the core values of the sport remain paramount. He envisions technology as a tool to support and improve the game, ensuring fair play and providing a better experience for fans and players alike. The focus is on continuous development and innovation.

Mr. Macedo de Medeiros concluded by describing sport as both a cause and a consequence, possessing immense potential to generate wealth, prosperity, culture, and social education. He sees sport as a bridge for positive change, fostering a constructive and positive landscape. He praised Qatar for being ahead of the curve in this regard.

He reiterated that sport is a global business involving civil society, national organizations, and governments. All stakeholders must collaborate to protect and enhance the sport’s integrity. SIGA stands ready to work with all who seek to free sport from its problems, advocating for stable contexts and effective legislation.