By A special event dedicated to the 100th anniversary of legendary Azerbaijani linesman Tofiq Bahramov and the inaugural celebration of May 19 – World Fair Play Day – was held in Baku on May 26. The event was organized by the “Azerbaijan Football Referees” Public Union with the support of the British Embassy in Azerbaijan, the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan (AFFA), and Neftçi PFK.
Held at ASK Arena, the symbolic “Fair Play Match” brought together professional, veteran, female, amateur, and amputee footballers, along with referees, in mixed teams. The main message of the event was clear: Football is for everyone, and the values of fair play should be universally upheld. The match was also a tribute to Tofiq Bahramov, an iconic figure in world football known for his integrity and objectivity.
The opening ceremony featured speeches from H.E. Fergus Auld, the British Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Gulaga Jabarov, Chairman of the “Azerbaijan Football Referees” Public Union, Iskandar Javadov, President of the Regional Football Federation, and Mehriban Mammadova, Head of the “Legal Eagles” women’s football team. Ambassador Auld addressed the audience in Azerbaijani, emphasizing the unifying power of sports and the importance of inclusivity:
“The Fair Play Match is a beautiful initiative. It shows that football and sport are truly for everyone. Everyone plays on the same field, and this illustrates how football brings people together. This match is also dedicated to a very special person – the face of Azerbaijani football, Tofiq Bahramov.”
Among the participants was the “Baku Juniors” Women’s Football Club, which actively supported and proudly participated in the initiative. The club’s manager, Agasef Osmanli, highlighted the importance of such events in promoting women’s participation and visibility in football. He noted that ensuring equal opportunities for all in sports remains a key mission for the club.
The match saw members of the British Embassy, “Legal Eagles” and “Baku Juniors” women’s teams, football veterans, referees, and the national amputee team come together in the spirit of fair play. At the end of the event, Neftçi PFK presented gifts to the amputee footballers, while the British Embassy distributed commemorative gifts to the women’s teams.
This meaningful event once again showcased that football is more than just a game – it is a powerful social platform that promotes values such as equality, respect, and solidarity
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