Riyadh: The World Football Summit (WFS) officially began in Saudi Arabia on Monday, bringing together key stakeholders from the global football community. At the opening ceremony, attended by representatives from major football organizations such as FIFA and UEFA, along with senior executives, players, and technical staff, the summit’s co-founder and managing director, Jan Alessie, outlined the event’s overarching goal.

According to Anadolu Agency, Jan Alessie emphasized the summit’s role as a platform for fostering collaboration and innovation across all facets of the sport. “Our mission is to unite the football industry,” Alessie stated, highlighting the importance of the event in bringing together diverse elements within the football world.

Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Sport, Bader Alkadi, addressed the summit, underscoring the critical role of sports in the country’s development. Alkadi highlighted Saudi Arabia’s substantial investments in the sports sector, stating, “As a nation, we live happier, lo
nger, and more active lives thanks to sports. We connect the world through sports.” He asserted that the investment in sports is intended to improve the quality of life for Saudis.

During the summit, Turkish Super Lig side Eyupspor’s head coach, Arda Turan, will participate in a panel discussion titled “Transition from Elite Football Player to Coach: Adaptation and Leadership Journey,” where he will share insights from his career shift. The event serves as a forum for discussions about football’s future, with a focus on sustainability, technological advancements, and global development.