Other benchmarks that contributed to the recognition comprise transparent governance of event operations, diversity and inclusion in participation and promotion, and enabling a positive legacy or community impact in promoting sport integrity.

AFC General Counsel and Director of Legal Affairs, Andrew Mercer, who received the award on behalf of the Confederation, said: “At the heart of the AFC’s Mission statement is the desire to ensure that the AFC’s competitions, matches and the conduct of its people conform to the highest ethical and sporting standards. We thank SIGA for this immense honour and we commend them for championing the AFC’s cherished values of integrity and good governance.

“We must also praise the AFC’s Participating Member Associations and clubs for their dedication to upholding the key tenets of fair play and sportsmanship, and this award is a tribute to their steadfast efforts.”

The SIGA Sport Integrity Awards celebrate organisations and individuals excelling in advancing integrity globally. The ceremony, which honours those demonstrating leadership and innovation to drive cultural change, gathered global leaders, senior executives, sports icons, and key stakeholders from various sectors.

The landmark event, which will remain in the FIFA World Cup 2034 host nation for a three-year cycle, will be a highlight of the Sport Integrity Action Month, a global SIGA initiative that mobilises stakeholders across continents to advance the highest standards of Good Governance, Transparency, and Accountability in Sport.