The event welcomed more than one hundred participants from across Asia, featuring representatives from FIFA and CONCACAF, members of the AFC Professional Football Committee, as well as special guest Rebekah Stott, the MVP of the AFC Women’s Champions League™ 2024/25.

The seminar kicked off with a presentation on the new chapter of AFC club competitions, followed by an overview of the professional football landscape across Asia and a discussion on the club licensing roadmap.

Over the three days, participants delved into in-depth studies of the various pillars of professional football development, which examined the key tenets of club football growth, and the professionalisation of women’s football.

Participants also heard from representatives of the J.League, Qatar Stars League, the UAE Pro League, and the Cambodia Premier League, who shared case studies from their respective league development initiatives and club licensing systems.

 

In welcoming the participants, AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John said: “Last year, our much-anticipated revamped club competitions were launched to tremendous success and, in many ways, changed the trajectory of club football in Asia.

 

“We all know that the AFC’s Vision is to be a model confederation and to ensure that football is the number one sport in Asia. To achieve that objective, we must remain committed to the continuous development of our clubs.

 

“Professional football is evolving fast, and the AFC must not only keep up, but also set new standards of excellence, which is why this seminar is of vital importance.”

The programme also featured a presentation on the FIFA Club Benefits Programme, which recognises clubs with financial rewards for their contribution to the successful staging of the FIFA World Cup.

Additionally, the seminar honoured long-serving club licensing managers from across Asia, recognising their invaluable contributions and unwavering commitment to advancing the beautiful game on the Continent.