“Thanks to a combination of government support and national association hard work, football at all levels in Azerbaijan is developing consistently,” said UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin as he sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev on his resounding victory in the snap presidential election held on February 7.

“On behalf of European football community, I would like to warmly congratulate you upon your re-election as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

A repeat victory is perhaps the best proof of how much confidence and trust the Azerbaijani people have in you. Under your leadership, Azerbaijan has seen a remarkable progress in diverse areas of society, including sports and football. I would like to express my gratitude for the careful attention you pay to our beautiful game and, also, remember the genuine excitement everyone felt when Baku hosted its deciding matches during the UEFA EURO 2020.

As you may know, the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan joined UEFA in 1994- an amazing 30 years ago- and thanks to a combination of government support and national association hard work, football at all levels in Azerbaijan is developing consistently and strategically. Football infrastructure is improving and providing new access to the game. Club performance is increasingly regular at the European level- and, so, there is much to be proud of and much to hope for in the future.

Please accept my best wishes. Mr. President, as you continue your leadership of this incredibly special country and people,” the UEFA president said in his message.