On Apr. 22, 2027, Astana will host the 51st UEFA Ordinary Congress, where a new UEFA president and members of the UEFA Executive Committee will be elected.
According to the press service of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the congress will bring together representatives of all 55 UEFA member national football associations, as well as the organization’s leadership, delegates from FIFA, European leagues, clubs and other sports organizations.
“Granting Kazakhstan the right to host such a large-scale event confirms UEFA’s high level of trust and recognition of the country’s ability to organize major international sporting events,” the ministry said.
The ministry noted that UEFA will cover all organizational expenses.
Meanwhile, the congress will take place amid ongoing changes in Kazakhstan’s football. The country is upgrading its sports infrastructure, developing youth football and reforming the management system of professional clubs.
Eleven clubs are already operating under a new model that involves private investment. More than 80 billion tenge (around $170.9 million) has been allocated for their development. Another eight clubs are expected to adopt the new system in the near future.
On Aug. 4, Paris Saint-Germain announced that it will open a football academy in Kazakhstan. The academy is expected to train young players according to its own international standards.
Hosting the UEFA Ordinary Congress and opening a PSG Academy are two steps toward strengthening Kazakhstan’s position on the European football map.
