Marwin Bolz is a rising German football coach, known for his modern tactical mindset and rapid ascent within women’s football. Born on February 7, 1998, in Hamburg, Bolz began his football journey as a youth player, developing through the academies of clubs such as FC Eintracht Norderstedt, FC St. Pauli, Eintracht Braunschweig, and Niendorfer TSV. As a player, he primarily featured as a centre-back and occasionally as a right-back, bringing physical presence and positional discipline to the backline.
His senior playing career included stints at regional clubs like TSV Sasel and Eimsbütteler TV, competing in Germany’s lower divisions. His coaching journey began with Hamburger SV’s women’s team, where he made an immediate impact. Under his leadership, the team achieved promotion to the 2. Frauen-Bundesliga, showcasing a playing style defined by structured buildup, high pressing, and positional discipline. He also contributed to the club’s broader success with a promotion to the 1. Bundesliga, further highlighting his role in HSV’s development and competitiveness.
Bolz quickly earned recognition for his analytical approach and ability to develop players in a professional environment, bringing a fresh and organized identity to the team. In May 2025, he took the next major step in his career, becoming the head coach of SC Braga’s women’s team in Portugal. At just 27 years old, he now leads one of Portugal’s most ambitious women’s clubs, with a clear mandate to elevate the team’s domestic performance and compete for UEFA Women’s Champions League qualification.
His appointment marks a new chapter not only for SC Braga but also for Bolz, as he brings his blend of German structure and tactical innovation to the Southern European stage. Known for his dedication to continuous improvement, multilingual ability, and capacity to lead with clarity and conviction, Marwin Bolz represents a new generation of football coaches who combine on-field experience with sharp tactical acumen and a deep understanding of the women’s game.
Our Exclusive Interview with Marwin Bolz
Who is Marwin Bolz outside of football, and how have your personal experiences shaped your path as a coach?
I have always been someone you can count on. For me, this has been one of the most important values in life. Science has also consistently played a role in my journey. After graduating from school, I began studying biology, focusing on the tiniest molecules to understand life. In this field, I concentrated on plant viruses and how they infect plants. This period taught me discipline and persistence. I often had to repeat experiments more than a hundred times, continuously optimizing the process until it produced consistent results. It required precision and a deep love for detail, qualities that now drive me as a coach to achieve the goals and results we aim for, time and time again.
What drew you to coaching women’s football, and what have you learned from working with female athletes?
When I started coaching, I was fortunate that someone from the federation where I earned my license had the idea to appoint me as an assistant for the U14 girls’ selection team in Hamburg. That was the beginning of the journey. Several players from that group went on to play professional football, and some of them later became part of my teams in Hamburg. That group left a lasting impression on me and shaped how I see women’s football.
What stood out was their quality, passion, and the way we trained and spoke about the game. I have always felt that we can achieve meaningful things in women’s football. In Hamburg, we were able to work with great detail on principles and how we wanted to play. I appreciated the ambition of the players and their desire to understand every aspect of the game. Emotion has always been the driver of energy, and that energy has consistently been present in the women’s teams I have coached.
Your teams are often praised for their tactical discipline. What do you look for when building a game model?
At first, the core of the game model reflects who I am and what matters to me as a person and as a coach. I value clarity and directness. I like to be straightforward about our goals and avoid wasting time. I prefer a style of play that uses one or two touches to overcome the opponent, while changing the rhythm at the right moment to create one-on-one situations in specific zones.
Equally important is how we work without the ball. I want the team to be well-prepared to defend with intensity, using an aggressive and active approach. Preparation is something I value deeply, and defensive organization has always been important to me, likely influenced by my experience as a defensive player.
Ultimately, I focus on the people around me. I look at the demands and strengths of the players and staff, and I ask which spaces and situations help them perform at their best. Training is about building connections. These connections evolve over time. New players and staff join the group, and the network shifts. The game model must stay fluid, adapting to the changes within the team.
How do you approach leadership in a dressing room, especially with players from different backgrounds and cultures?
Every team has its own culture, and it is the responsibility of everyone to uphold its values within the dressing room. I believe in listening to players and empowering them to contribute to our shared culture. We must embrace each individual’s perspective while pushing together in the same direction. The big picture matters most. The team comes first, but every person plays an important role.
What excites you most about this new chapter at SC Braga, and what kind of identity do you hope to build there?
When I arrived in Braga, I felt that we could achieve something meaningful here. We have the foundation for high-level performance and the structure to work in a truly professional environment. I believe we can instill a winning mentality. We want to be highly professional while also finding joy both on and off the pitch. Alongside our playing style and collective mindset, I also want to push every player on an individual level, both as athletes and as people. In the end, individual growth will lead to the team’s overall improvement.
Looking ahead, what personal goals do you still have in football, and where do you see yourself growing next?
Braga is a great club. I want to develop our own unique style of play and instill a winning mentality. With this attitude and ambition, we aim to prepare ourselves to win titles. The road ahead will be challenging, but that’s exactly what I’m looking for: challenges.
Camilla Prando is a Brazilian football executive whose career spans club internationalization, institutional relations, technical management for professional football, and global football business development. With a background as a former player and over a decade of experience across South America, Europe, and the Middle East, she has worked in senior roles for São Paulo FC, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), TransferRoom, and Saudi Media Company (SMC). Her career reflects a blend of strategic thinking, cross-cultural leadership, and deep industry knowledge.
Early Life and Education
Prando’s academic path reflects a strong and early commitment to football. She studied Social Sciences in high school, with a specialization in; economics and football, already focused on the broader social and economic dynamics that would later shape her career in the football industry. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Latin American Studies at Stockholm University, an interdisciplinary program covering the region’s politics, geography, economies, history, and culture she pursued her first football specialization in ”Technical Management for Football Clubs”, at the Universidade do Futebol. Over the years, she complemented her education with several courses in scouting, performance analysis, and marketing, while maintaining a clear emphasis on management. She completed a ”Technical Club Management” course at CONMEBOL Evolución and is currently finalizing her Sports Management Diploma with the same institution. Additionally, she completed the Master FPF program, organized by the Federação Paulista de Futebol in partnership with LaLiga Business School. These experiences have equipped her with a multidisciplinary understanding of governance, leadership, and global football ecosystems.
Professional Experience
In 2024, Camilla Prando joined the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) as Special Executive Advisor to the President, where she oversaw international affairs, advised on domestic football matters, and helped lead strategic modernization efforts. By the end of the year, she chose to step away from the role to pursue new opportunities more closely aligned with her values and long-term vision.
Before that, she worked at Saudi Media Company (SMC) in Riyadh, as Head of Sports, Prando led the Sports Department delivering commercial strategies and building partnerships across the sports and media landscape. She contributed to sponsorship deals for Lega Serie A in the MENA region, collaborated with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) and Globe Soccer Awards, and was actively involved in event operations at Alawwal Park, home of Al-Nassr FC.
In a pivotal stage of her international career, she worked as Senior Business Development Manager at TransferRoom, where she spearheaded the platform’s expansion in Brazil, Argentina, Portugal, and Saudi Arabia. She played a central role in securing the first Saudi Pro League partnership and managed relationships across the Middle East. As the company has a portfolio of over 800 clubs and 400 agencies globally, the platform provided a dynamic environment that significantly supported her daily work and further enriched her own professional network. Known for her cultural fluency and deep understanding of transfer dynamics and player profiles, she was frequently approached by clubs, agents, and colleagues seeking her insight and support in navigating complex international markets and building strategic connections.
Her earlier roles included supporting the management restructuring of UD Almería with the Belgian company Double Pass and serving as Senior Executive Manager at São Paulo FC, where she led the International Relations Department. In that role, she was instrumental in driving the club’s internationalization strategy, securing strategic partnerships, including a USD 1.7 million fan token campaign with Socios.com, in which all 800,000 tokens were sold in less than two hours and representing the club at major football summits across Europe and Latin America. She also led the negotiation and closure of the first-ever agreement between a Brazilian Série A club and a Chamber of Commerce: the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce. This groundbreaking partnership aimed not only to strengthen institutional ties but also to lay the groundwork for mid- and long-term business deals and operations with the Middle East and potential investors. Additionally, Prando worked closely with São Paulo’s legal department to explore and optimize the club’s entitlements under FIFA’s solidarity mechanism, a strategic move considering her relationship with football clubs worldwide and the significant number of players the club has exported globally.
A curious full-circle moment in her career: SMC, the Saudi company Prando would later join in Riyadh, recently acquired Spanish club UD Almería—where she had previously worked (2019) during the club’s early transformation under its former Saudi owner, H.E. Turki Al Sheikh, in collaboration with Double Pass.
Football and its really round coincidences.
Institutional Engagement and Thought Leadership
Prando is widely recognized for her expertise in navigating institutional relations with FIFA, CONMEBOL, UEFA, national federations, and football clubs around the world. Her work focuses on building trust across borders and uncovering new revenue streams for clubs. Although she has made several public appearances speaking at events such as the World Football Summit in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Madrid; the Social Football Summit in Rome; the Thinking Football Summit by Liga Portugal in Porto; and TransferRoom summits and innovation forums in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, she prefers a more low-key role, often working behind the scenes. Despite this, her early prominence as a young woman in a predominantly male industry brought her recognition and respect for her expertise and ability to navigate complex international markets. She has also contributed her insights on global football developments and business through podcasts and interviews.
Philosophy and Values
Her work is guided by a collaborative, global approach to football, grounded in communication, cultural fluency, and strategic alignment with diverse stakeholders. She is deeply committed to advancing governance standards, professionalizing football institutions, and fostering long-term growth through data, education, and international cooperation. With a strong ethical foundation, she thrives in fast-paced environments while maintaining a mindful balance to manage her natural workaholic drive. Knowing from an early age the path she wanted to follow—and the challenges she would face as a young woman in a male-dominated industry—she has broken countless barriers throughout her career. Her journey is fueled by an unwavering conviction that with focus, persistence, and resilience, any goal can be achieved. Multilingual and holding dual citizenship, she leverages her global mobility to serve as a powerful connector across diverse football markets.
Current Focus
Now based in Brazil and embracing international opportunities, Prando continues to make a significant impact on the football world through consulting, visionary project development, and strategic partnerships. Fluent in six languages and supported by a vast global network, she is uniquely positioned to unite the realms of sport, business, and diplomacy, earning her recognition as a trusted and influential leader on the global stage.
Our Exclusive Interview with Camilla Prando
Who is Camilla Prando outside of football, and how have your personal experiences shaped your approach to leadership?
Outside of football, I am a person driven by purpose and a constant desire for growth. I enjoy learning, observing human behavior, and understanding what truly motivates people. My personal experiences have taught me that leadership is not about imposing, but about inspiring. I have been in situations where I needed to balance firmness with empathy, and this shaped my leadership style: I am strategic, yet human. I believe that attentive listening, recognizing individual talents, and having clear objectives are fundamental pillars for creating a high-performance environment both on and off the field. Additionally, I carry with me the conviction that leading is, above all, serving the collective—building bridges and cultivating trust. It is this vision that drives me daily, with courage and responsibility, in everything I choose to build.
What core values guide your work across international football institutions and projects?
The values that guide me are consistency, respect, and a systemic vision. In any project, regardless of the country or culture, I believe that trust is built through alignment between words and actions. Respect for cultural diversity, individual journeys, and different perspectives on the game is fundamental when working in international contexts. Additionally, I have a strong commitment to the sustainable development of football, which means thinking about solutions that have a technical, human, and structural impact in the long term. I believe that when we work with a clear purpose and collective responsibility, we can align performance with legacy and that is what I strive to bring to every institution or project I engage with.
How do you approach building trust and effective relationships with clubs, federations, and stakeholders across different regions?
The foundation of any lasting relationship is active listening and genuine respect for local realities. When approaching clubs, federations, and stakeholders in different contexts, I first seek to understand each culture, their challenges, and specific objectives. I believe trust is built through consistent delivery, transparency in processes, and true presence in the day-to-day of the project. I also highly value clear communication being objective but empathetic and always striving for collaborative solutions where all parties feel heard and represented. My experience in people management enables me to identify talents, align expectations, and build healthy work environments where every professional feels valued and motivated. Ultimately, my focus is on creating bridges, not just temporary partnerships, which requires leadership that is firm in values but flexible in approach.
What was the most challenging and rewarding project you’ve led so far in your career?
Leading the unprecedented partnership between São Paulo Futebol Clube and the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce was undoubtedly one of the most challenging and impactful experiences of my career. In a context where women in executive roles still face resistance, especially in football taking the lead in an international negotiation required not only technical expertise and strategic vision but also resilience in the face of structures that still need to evolve in terms of representation and inclusion.
More than an institutional agreement between two entities, this initiative represented a real step forward in the internationalization of Brazilian football. Our sector still lacks a consolidated culture of international relations both in management and in forward-looking vision and this project helped break that pattern, demonstrating that football can (and should) connect with new markets and cultures in a structured and strategic way.
The most rewarding part was seeing the reach of this initiative: just a few months later, the Government of the State of São Paulo signed an agreement with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates, signaling that the seed planted in football bore fruit in other institutional spheres. The project began to inspire not only other clubs but also public bodies and entities interested in exploring new forms of international cooperation.
Leading this process as a woman, in a space still undergoing transformation, reaffirms for me that it is possible to occupy these positions with authority, competence, and a global vision. More than that, it shows that football can be a real driver of diplomacy, development, and innovation for the country.
In your view, what are the key steps clubs must take to successfully internationalize their operations and brand?
For a club to successfully internationalize its operations and brand in a consistent and sustainable way, it is necessary to approach this process with a solid technical strategy and a long-term vision. First, the club must consolidate its institutional identity, ensuring that its values, mission, and culture are clearly defined and aligned with its global objectives. This foundation is essential to communicate authentically and create genuine connections in other markets.
Next, the organizational structure needs to be prepared to operate internationally, with professionals specialized in governance, international relations, communication, and sports business. Building strategic partnerships should go beyond immediate commercial interests, seeking cultural alignment and shared goals, which strengthens trust and ensures sustainability.
Furthermore, it is crucial that the club develops cultural intelligence to understand the particularities of external markets, adapting its approach without losing its essence. Internationalization is, above all, about building bridges that promote genuine exchange, respect, and mutual learning.
Finally, this process must be continuously evaluated and adjusted, with clear metrics to measure sporting, institutional, and brand impact. Only then will the club be able to expand its global presence in a structured way, inspiring other institutions and contributing to the evolution of football as a global business and culture.
You’ve worked in Brazil, Europe, and the Middle East. How do cultural differences influence football governance and business development?
Cultural differences are a central element that profoundly shapes governance and business development in football across each region. In Brazil, for example, the passion for football is intense and part of the national identity, but we still face challenges related to the professionalization of management, formalization of institutional processes, and a culture of immediacy that often hinders the implementation of long-term strategies.
In Europe, there is a more consolidated structure, with clear rules, transparency, and strong governance, creating a more predictable and regulated business environment.
In the Middle East, football is seen both as a tool for social development and a strategy for international projection, with robust investments and a focus on innovation, but with cultural and political dynamics that require sensitivity and adaptation.
Working in these distinct contexts has taught me that effective governance depends on balancing respect for local particularities with the application of universal principles of transparency, ethics, and sustainability. In business development, understanding culture is fundamental to building trustful relationships, aligning expectations, and creating lasting partnerships. This cultural intelligence is, therefore, a strategic asset essential for those working in international football.
What advice would you give to young professionals looking to build a career in international football management?
For those looking to build a career in international football management, my advice is to invest in a solid combination of technical knowledge, strategic vision, and, above all, cultural intelligence. The global football market is complex and dynamic, and professionals who understand cultural differences, regulatory aspects, and the particularities of each market have a significant competitive advantage.
Additionally, it is essential to cultivate resilience and adaptability. The career can be challenging, with many obstacles and moments of uncertainty, but perseverance and a constant pursuit of learning are what set apart the professionals who truly make a difference.
Never underestimate the power of human relationships; building a global network of contacts based on trust, ethics, and transparency is as essential as mastering the technical aspects of the sport and business.
Finally, stay curious and open to opportunities. Seek international experiences, learn other languages, and always be ready to step out of your comfort zone. International football management requires passion, preparation, and a keen eye on the transformations within the sport and the world.
What’s next for you, and how do you envision contributing to the evolution of global football in the coming years?
In the coming years, I intend to deepen my work in the technical management of professional and youth football, using the solid experience I have built in Europe as a foundation to implement international standards of excellence in Brazilian football. The professionalization of the sport in Brazil depends on incorporating these established practices that ensure efficiency, governance, and consistent results.
Moreover, my experience in the Arab world has allowed me to understand the specific needs of this region, which is at a crucial moment of development and seeking modernization in football management. I want to contribute to implementing technical and strategic knowledge, helping to build solid structures that drive the sustainable growth of the local sport.
My mission is to be a strategic bridge between Europe, Brazil, and the Middle East, promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices, and driving the advancement and sustainable development of football worldwide.
Transferring a soccer player in Zimbabwe involves navigating a structured process governed by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) and aligned with FIFA regulations.
Background
Biggest Clubs:
Dynamos: 22 Titles
Caps United: 5 Titles
Highlanders: 7 Titles
The dominance of Dynamos has been significant in history, especially during the late 80s, 90s, and early 2000s.
Football News in Zimbabwe
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is the top tier of football in Zimbabwe, consisting of 18 clubs. Traditional clubs like Dynamos, Highlanders, and CAPS United still have large followings, but newer clubs such as FC Platinum and Chicken Inn have been performing well in recent times.
Lower league competitions under the PSL (Division One, Two, and Three) are organized by regions, but face challenges such as lack of funding and insufficient professionalism.
National Team (Warriors)
The national team, the Warriors, has talent but has faced challenges in international competitions. Zimbabwe qualified for the AFCON tournaments in 2017 and 2019, but political issues and leadership challenges have affected progress.
Zimbabwean Players Abroad
Zimbabwe has produced notable players such as: • Khama Billiat (formerly with Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa, now with Scotland FC Zimbabwe) • Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town, England) • Knowledge Musona (formerly with Anderlecht and Al-Tai) • Marshall Munetsi (Wolverhampton Wanderers, English Premier League)
Legends
Peter Ndlovu
In 1991, Peter Ndlovu became the first African player to play in the English Premier League! He played over 150 games for Coventry and scored many memorable goals.
Benjani Mwaruwari
Benjani started his professional career at Jomo Cosmos in South Africa, where he showed his goal-scoring abilities. In 2001, he moved to Europe to play for Grasshopper Club Zürich in Switzerland.
That same year, he signed with AJ Auxerre in France, where he gained considerable recognition. In 2006, he transferred to Portsmouth in the English Premier League for £4.1 million, managed by Harry Redknapp. During his time at Portsmouth, Benjani became a fan favorite, known for his hard work and goal-scoring ability.
In January 2008, he moved to Manchester City for £3.87 million, which could rise to £7.6 million with performance incentives. He made an immediate impact, scoring the winning goal in a Manchester derby against Manchester United shortly after his move.
Transfer Process – Key Points
1. Check Player Status and Obtain Clearance
Before starting a transfer, do the following:
Contract Status: Check if the player is still under contract or is a free agent.
Clearance Letter: If the player is transferring from another club, obtain a letter confirming they no longer have a contract with that club. This avoids registration issues.
2. Use an Intermediary Registered with ZIFA
The transfer must be conducted with the help of an agent registered with ZIFA.
According to FIFA and ZIFA regulations, the agent’s fee should not exceed 10% of the player’s signing-on fee.
Be cautious of agents who may attempt to mislead you or demand excessive, illegal fees.
3. Use the Zimbabwe Connect System
For international transfers, ZIFA recommends using the Zimbabwe Connect system:
International Transfer Certificate (ITC): Ensure you request an ITC from the relevant association.
Registration: Register the player on Zimbabwe Connect for smooth processing.
4. Follow Transfer Fee and Compensation Regulations
ZIFA has set compensation fees based on the player’s age and the purchasing club’s league:
18–23 years: $2,300 if the club is in the Premier League.
23–28 years: Fee increases to $3,200 as it is the “prime age.”
28+ years: The fee decreases.
This ensures that smaller clubs don’t exploit players without proper compensation.
5. Resolve Contract Disputes Properly
If there is a disagreement between the player and the club:
ZIFA recommends negotiating and resolving the issue before going to court.
Registration during Dispute: ZIFA can register the player with another club while the issue is being resolved.
6. Comply with FIFA and Zimbabwe Laws
Third-Party Influence: FIFA prohibits third-party ownership of clubs.
National Law: ZIFA must follow both Zimbabwe’s laws and FIFA’s regulations.
Final Tips
Documentation: Keep all records of contracts and communications.
Thorough Research: Ensure the agent you are using is properly licensed.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on ZIFA announcements to stay updated on new regulations.
By following these guidelines, you can legally and properly conduct soccer transfers in Zimbabwe.
In Conclusion
The future of football in Zimbabwe depends on several key factors. First, significant investment is needed in youth development and the promotion of football schools and youth programs across the country.
Clubs must improve their organizational practices, including good leadership, sound financial management, and player welfare. Developing infrastructure, such as stadiums and training facilities, will be crucial for nurturing talent and hosting top-level competitions.
At the same time, football leaders must prioritize integrity, good governance, and attracting financial sponsors to ensure the sport remains sustainable.
Rebuilding trust with fans and strengthening community engagement will also help grow support for football. If these factors are addressed, Zimbabwe has a strong chance of becoming a football powerhouse in Africa in the coming years.
It wasn’t just a football tournament. It was a cultural awakening. A shared heartbeat. And a moment when two nations opened their arms—and the world listened.
When South Korea and Japan co-hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2002, it marked the first time the tournament was held in Asia. But more importantly, it was the first time the world truly saw what football meant to the East.
Two Nations, One Stage
The decision to split hosting duties between South Korea and Japan was met with skepticism. Political tensions ran deep. Logistics were complicated. But when the tournament kicked off, those doubts melted into scenes of joy, unity, and pure footballing magic.
From the high-tech stadiums of Yokohama and Sapporo to the electric streets of Seoul and Daejeon, football didn’t just arrive in Asia—it exploded.
“We wanted to show the world our passion. Not just for football, but for coming together. And we did.”
— Koji Nakata, Japan defender
The hospitality was unmatched. The choreography in the stands, the smiling volunteers, the pride in every banner and anthem—it was a tournament that felt personal.
The Miracle of Seoul
No story captured hearts quite like South Korea’s.
Grouped with Portugal, Poland, and the United States, few gave them a real chance. But under the guidance of Guus Hiddink—a coach who demanded belief—they didn’t just aim to participate. They aimed to shock.
1–0 vs. Poland – A dream start.
1–1 vs. USA – The belief grows.
1–0 vs. Portugal – A seismic moment: Korea top the group.
Then came the knockouts.
Against Italy in the Round of 16, Ahn Jung-hwan’s golden goal etched itself into history. Against Spain, the penalty shootout turned millions of Koreans into lifelong believers.
“It wasn’t just about football. We felt like we were carrying the entire country on our backs.”
— Park Ji-sung, South Korea midfielder
In the semi-final against Germany, the dream finally ended. But the legacy had already been written: South Korea became the first Asian team to reach the World Cup’s final four.
“The streets of Seoul weren’t just red. They were alive.”
— BBC Commentator, June 2002
Japan’s First Steps into the Light
For Japan, the 2002 tournament was also historic. After years of building the domestic game through the J.League, this was their chance to prove they belonged.
And they did.
A confident 2–0 win against Tunisia and a thrilling 1–0 against Russia saw Japan top their group—another first. Junichi Inamoto emerged as a star, and Nakata showed his class on home soil.
Although they bowed out in the Round of 16 against Turkey, the feeling was clear: Japan was no longer a footballing outsider.
“You could feel it in the air—we were building something. The next generation watched us and believed.”
— Hidetoshi Nakata, Japan midfielder
A Shift in Global Perception
Before 2002, Asian football was often overlooked. The technical ability was there, but the results weren’t. That changed forever in those four summer weeks.
European clubs began to scout Asia with new eyes. Players like Park Ji-sung, Shunsuke Nakamura, and later Keisuke Honda and Shinji Kagawa would make their mark in top European leagues—following the path opened by this tournament.
“After 2002, the phone didn’t stop ringing. Clubs wanted to know about Korea. About Japan. About our players.”
— Asian football agent, speaking anonymously
Asia was no longer just a host. It was a footballing force.
Legacy in Words and Memories
The stadiums: Still iconic, still used.
The moments: Still replayed, still unforgettable.
The impact: Still felt, especially among a generation of Asian kids who watched in awe and dared to dream.
“It was more than just football. It united our people. Everyone in Korea believed we could do something impossible.”
— Park Ji-sung, FIFA.com Interview
Final Whistle, Eternal Impact
The 2002 World Cup wasn’t perfect. There were controversial refereeing calls. There were giants who fell early. But above all, there was heart. There was energy. There was hope.
In Seoul and in Saitama, in Gwangju and in Yokohama, something unforgettable happened.
Asia didn’t just host the world. It reminded the world why football matters.
And it all started with a ball, a dream and the roar of two nations united.
Julia Donauer is a football coach and certified sports mental trainer whose work bridges neuro-centered football training and mental performance. With the motto “Your head is your most important equipment – make it fit for peak performance,” she is dedicated to helping athletes strengthen their mental game through structured, brain-based training methods. Her mission is to equip athletes with mental and cognitive tools that enhance focus, boost motivation, and improve decision-making under pressure—unlocking their full potential through the powerful combination of physical and mental strength.
Core Principles
Julia’s coaching philosophy is centered on four core values:
Self-efficacy – fostering belief in one’s own capabilities
Growth – learning through challenge and adversity
Balance – maintaining composure and control in high-pressure situations
Personal support – providing tailored guidance toward mental strength and development
She believes that athletic excellence stems from combining physical conditioning with mental preparation, enabling faster and more sustainable development.
Qualifications & Certifications
Julia holds a range of certifications in mental and football-specific training:
Certified Sport Mental Trainer (Deutsche Mentaltrainer Akademie e.V., Academy of Sports)
Certificate in Psychology for Sports Coaches in High Performance (FC Barcelona Innovation Hub)
Courses in values-based coaching, self-confidence, motivation, and goal-setting (Home of Goals)
Candidate: Football Mental Coach (Completion July 2025)
Football-specific and athletic development qualifications include:
Soccerkinetics Neurocentric Football Coach
Certificate in Coach Selection and Development (Internationales Fußballinstitut)
Candidate: Speed Coaching (by Raphael Schuler)
Her academic background in biology reinforces her scientific approach to mental and cognitive training.
Coaching Career
Julia brings over two decades of athletic experience and years of applied coaching expertise to the field:
2024–25 Season: Assistant Coach, FFC Wacker München (Regionalliga Süd, 3rd League Germany)
Four years as a youth girls’ team coach
Over 19 years as a football player and 17 years as a tennis player
Her competitive and coaching experience across multiple sports provides her with a unique understanding of athlete needs, mindset development, and performance routines.
Athletic Background
In addition to football and tennis, Julia actively participates in squash, padel tennis, long-distance running (including the Munich Half Marathon 2022), alpine skiing, and cross-country skiing. Her diverse sports background enables her to adapt training principles across disciplines and design holistic programs for her athletes.
Vision & Commitment
Julia is committed to lifelong learning and sees ongoing education as essential to personal and professional growth. Her goal is to establish mental and neurocentric training as a standard pillar in modern football development. With a focus on individual support and brain-centered training, she works to empower players both on and off the pitch.
Our Exclusive Interview with Julia Donauer
Who is Julia Donauer outside of football, and how have your personal experiences shaped your coaching philosophy?
Outside of football, I’m an individual who embraces life’s lessons with openness and curiosity. I find joy in staying active and engaging in sports, which not only keeps me physically fit but also mentally resilient. My relationships with family and friends are paramount, providing a support system that enriches my personal and professional life. Additionally, my compassion extends to animals; I have a rescue dog who reminds me daily of the importance of empathy and patience. These personal experiences have profoundly influenced my coaching philosophy. They’ve taught me the value of continuous self-improvement, the significance of a supportive community, and the necessity of empathy—all of which I integrate into my approach to (mental) coaching.
What inspired your focus on mental training and neuroscience in athlete development?
During my time as an active athlete, I realized that mental and cognitive aspects were simply not being addressed enough. It wasn’t until I faced a prolonged injury that I sought ways to aid my recovery, leading me to explore mental training techniques. This journey revealed that many strategies I had been using intuitively had solid scientific foundations. Motivated by this, I pursued formal education in mental coaching to bridge the gap between physical training and mental preparedness. My goal became to reintegrate these underrepresented elements into football, providing athletes with comprehensive tools to enhance their performance.
How do you integrate cognitive and physical training in your daily work with footballers?
I work both on an individual level and within team structures to integrate cognitive and physical training seamlessly. Many cognitive and coordinative elements can be built directly into warm-up routines or adapted into technical drills and game-like scenarios. But none of it is random—the goal is always clear: What do we want to target specifically? A major focus of my daily work is on improving movement quality, which plays a critical role in injury prevention. This often involves unfamiliar movement patterns and exercises that challenge players on multiple levels—physically, mentally, and neurologically. I follow the Soccerkinetics approach: taking traditional exercises and enhancing them with additional layers like cognitive, coordinative, technical, or visual stimuli.
Mental aspects are also woven into training sessions, equipping players with tools to handle pressure, boost motivation, enhance concentration, and build self-confidence.
You ask yourself – why is this important?
Because football has changed. Ball contact times are shorter than ever. Pass speeds and accuracy are at a level that demands both precision and split-second decision-making. Game pace and sprint intensity? Exploded. And over all, more pressure. Today’s footballers need to process information faster, move more efficiently, and make better decisions under pressure. That’s where cognitive training becomes not just useful—but essential. At the same time, it’s important that training isn’t just demanding, but also uplifting. It should build performance and joy. If players feel challenged and supported at the same time, they stay motivated—and that’s when real growth happens, both on and off the pitch.
Which experiences or mentors have had the most lasting influence on your professional path so far?
My professional journey has been shaped by a blend of formal education, personal experiences, and the influence of inspiring individuals. Each course and certification has introduced me to passionate colleagues who share my mission, enriching my perspective. Personal setbacks, particularly injuries during my athletic career, have provided invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptability. Collaborating with fellow coaches continues to offer fresh insights, reinforcing the importance of teamwork. Above all, I’m grateful for the mentors and supporters who have believed in me, their encouragement has been instrumental in my growth.
What future developments or innovations in mental performance training are you most excited to explore?
I’m enthusiastic about the rising recognition of mental training as an integral part of athlete development. The increasing openness towards mental health, especially in women’s football, is encouraging. But many voices and role models are still needed. I advocate for early psychological support in competitive sports, emphasizing prevention over reaction. There’s a pressing need to destigmatize mental health issues and incorporate mental health into regular training routines. Enhancing awareness and understanding of psychosomatic processes among medical and coaching staff is crucial for this integration.
Which books, disciplines, or off-field activities help you grow as a coach and mentor?
For me, reading is inspiration. It’s something I build into my day, whether at home or on the road to matches. There’s always something new to discover. Listening to podcasts helps me step outside my own bubble. I love hearing how others approach things—it inspires me, challenges me, and often reinforces what I believe in. Attending workshops and further training sessions is another avenue through which I expand my knowledge. These experiences not only enhance my expertise but also provide opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, fostering a collaborative environment for growth.
I have a long list of book and podcast recommendations—just ask! I’m always happy to share inspiration and exchange ideas. ????
Having lived in both China and Saudi Arabia, I have observed the distinct approaches each country employs towards advancement, especially regarding their increasing involvement in football. Both nations are endeavoring to enhance their international visibility not merely through hosting significant tournaments or acquiring high-profile athletes, but by establishing the infrastructure that will support the sport for future generations.
A geopolitical alliance between the emerging powers of Saudi Arabia and China presents a significant opportunity to transform football throughout Asia. This article examines the infrastructure-centric strategies adopted by each country, the obstacles encountered, and the potential impact of a collaborative initiative on the continent’s football environment.
China’s Football Infrastructure: Expansive, Yet Fragmented
In 2015, China launched a 30-year plan to become a “world football superpower” by 2050. The initiative aimed to create:
50,000 football schools
70,000 pitches
And increase the number of players to 50 million by 2020.
Living in Beijing, I witnessed this initiative develop. Educational institutions constructed new synthetic playing surfaces, and municipal authorities funded weekend training camps and youth leagues. However, numerous projects revealed insufficient long-term sustainability. Facilities were occasionally underutilized or disregarded, and local excitement frequently did not align with state-level aspirations.
Large-scale stadiums like the Beijing National Stadium (80,000 capacity) and Guangdong Olympic Stadium (80,012 capacity) highlight China’s engineering capabilities. Yet these venues were built for multi-sport events like the Olympics, not tailored for football-specific culture and growth.
Furthermore, financial uncertainty has afflicted Chinese clubs. A significant instance is Guangzhou FC, which collapsed following the Evergrande financial disaster. The club, once winners of the AFC Champions League, faced relegation in 2022 and encountered difficulties in remaining competitive.
Saudi Arabia’s Infrastructure Revolution: Purpose-Driven and Expanding
In contrast, Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure strategy is more focused and event-oriented. Under Vision 2030, the country has committed over $20 billion toward sports and football infrastructure. Hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup has accelerated these developments dramatically.
Key projects include:
15 stadiums across five cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar, Abha, and NEOM.
134 training facilities, 72 training camps, and 60 stadium-affiliated installations.
I’ve seen this ambition firsthand in Riyadh and Jeddah’s stadiums are being renovated to world-class standards, and new smart districts with integrated transit and hospitality are underway. But Saudi Arabia also understands the need for sustainable planning and global partnerships to deliver on its vision.
Case Study: Jeddah Central Development Stadium
A perfect illustration of the Saudi-China partnership is the Jeddah Central Development Stadium, scheduled to open in 2027, featuring a capacity of 45,794 seats. Situated in the ancient Al-Balad district, it is not merely a football venue; it is integral to a substantial waterfront transformation that includes a museum, oceanarium, and opera theater.
What makes this stadium notable is the construction partnership involved:
China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) – One of the world’s largest infrastructure firms.
SAMA Contracting – A Saudi construction giant
This project illustrates how the technical capacity of Chinese firms can integrate with Saudi capital and cultural vision to deliver complex, high-impact infrastructure on tight timelines.
Strategic Synergies: The Future of Collaboration
This partnership shouldn’t stop at one stadium. Here’s how both nations can scale their collaboration:
Saudi Arabia can fund the creation of smaller, smart stadiums across Asia while Chinese firms handle construction and technology. These stadiums can be modular, energy-efficient, and equipped with:
AI-powered ticketing and security
5G-enabled streaming for fan experiences
Renewable energy integration
Joint Football Academies
China has experience in top-down player development systems. Saudi Arabia, through the Mahd Academy and club-level investment, is focusing on talent cultivation. They can co-develop regional academies in Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Riyadh, Jeddah or NEOM.
These institutions can serve as pan-Asian elite training hubs, complete with medical facilities, analytics labs, and coaching certification programs. The coaching certification programs can open the pathways for both saudi arabian and chinese people to obtain coaching license which can help further improve each countries respective youth system.
Investing in the Next Generation: Joint Youth Football Development
While stadiums and mega-events capture headlines, the real legacy of football infrastructure lies in its impact on youth development. Both Saudi Arabia and China recognize this and have launched national initiatives aimed at turning young talent into future stars. However, challenges remain ones that a two-sided collaboration could help overcome.
China’s Scaled Yet Strained Youth Pipeline
After the 2015 reform, China integrated football into the curriculum of over 20,000 schools. By 2020, nearly 30,000 schools had added football programs. Cities like Beijing and Guangzhou now host elite academies, including the Evergrand Real Madrid Football School.
Despite this, the system faces:
Over-centralized management and red tape.
Limited competition opportunities.
Cultural pressure favoring academics over athletics.
Saudi Arabia’s Emerging Talent Engine
The Mahd Sports Academy, launched in 2020, scouts and trains youth athletes from across Saudi Arabia. Clubs like Aal-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Nassr are investing in U-17 and U-19 teams, and often send players abroad for exposure.
Challenges include:
A lack of international youth competition.
Infrastructure gaps in rural areas.
Over-reliance on imported senior players.
Collaborative Solutions: How They Can Help Each Other
Joint Youth Academies Across Asia
These bi-national institutions could operate in both countries’ major cities as mentioned previously. Training programs would combine China’s technical rigor with Saudi Arabia’s exposure to elite-level coaches and player lifestyles.
Youth Tournaments and Player Exchanges
A co-hosted Asian Youth Super Cup would give U-15 to U-19 squads high-level match experience. Player exchanges could allow Chinese players to train with top Saudi clubs, and vice versa. Saudi could acquire the top chinese players to help further boost their league with new talent. Similar to how Scotland, specifically Celtic FC buy Japanese players from the Japanese League, then develop them to become prominent players.
Curriculum and Coach Development
Co-developed coaching programs could modernize training for Asian youth, focusing on mental and tactical preparation, not just physical development.
Technology and Sports Science
Huawei’s sports wearables and Saudi-backed research can create next-gen development tools: real-time fatigue tracking, AI performance models, and tactical simulations in VR.
A Shared Blueprint for Asian Football
What I’ve observed living in both Saudi Arabia and China is that while their paths to progress differ, their goals align. Football is more than a sport, it’s a symbol of national identity, ambition, and international reach.
By leveraging Chinese speed, scale, and tech expertise alongside Saudi financial power, cultural vision, and event momentum, the two nations can engineer a new era of football infrastructure, one that lifts all of Asian Football. This isn’t just about World Cups or famous players. It’s about building the foundations of something lasting.
Hamit Altıntop: From Midfield Maestro to Architect of Turkish Football’s Future
Hamit Altıntop is a former professional footballer and football executive with a career spanning over 20 years. Known for his technical ability, leadership, and versatility, Altıntop has excelled both on the field and in administrative roles, leaving a significant mark on Turkish football and the international football landscape.
Early Career & Playing Success
Altıntop began his professional career at a young age, playing for Wattenscheid 09 before moving to major clubs like Schalke 04, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Galatasaray. At Bayern Munich, he won multiple Bundesliga titles and reached the UEFA Champions League final. He also secured domestic trophies in Spain and Turkey, solidifying his reputation as one of the most respected midfielders in European football.
On the international stage, Altıntop earned over 80 caps for the Turkish national team and represented his country in major tournaments like UEFA Euro 2008 and the FIFA World Cup. He was also awarded the FIFA Puskás Award for his stunning goal in 2010.
Transition to Football Administration
After retiring in January 2018, Altıntop made a seamless transition into football administration. He was appointed as a member of the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) Board of Directors in 2020, where he played a key role in modernizing the Turkish league system and advocating for reforms in youth development.
Altıntop has been deeply involved in various TFF strategic initiatives, including his work with the Ümit (U21) and Youth National Teams. His leadership is focused on creating a cohesive football identity from grassroots to the professional level. His commitment to professionalism, transparency, and long-term success has been central to his approach.
UEFA MIP Master Program & Contributions to European Football
In December 2023, Altıntop successfully completed the UEFA MIP (Master for International Players) program, designed for former players transitioning to senior management roles.
This 20-month course equipped him with the skills necessary to further contribute to football governance and strategic decision-making. His diploma was presented by UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin.
Altıntop has also contributed to various UEFA initiatives, working on promoting youth development programs and providing insights into European football policies. He is an advocate for international cooperation and has actively contributed to discussions on club licensing, financial sustainability, and fair play.
Leadership Vision & Legacy
Altıntop’s leadership style, shaped by his extensive experience at the highest levels of football, emphasizes discipline, innovation, and creating pathways for young talent. As a football executive, his vision is to bridge the gap between traditional footballing practices and modern methodologies, aiming to enhance the future of both Turkish and European football.
His work in Turkish football, from his role at the TFF to his involvement in UEFA projects, highlights his enduring commitment to the sport, and his impact is expected to resonate for years to come.
Our Exclusive Interview with Hamit Altıntop
Who is Hamit Altıntop outside of football?
Hamit Altıntop is a family oriented person, a father of six, and a passionate golf enthusiast.
What philosophies guided your leadership in your football executive career at the Turkish Football Federation?
Throughout my time at the Turkish Football Federation, people have always been at the heart of my leadership approach, whether players, coaches, or staff. I firmly believe that lasting success can only be achieved when trust, respect, and personal development are genuinely practiced. My leadership philosophy is rooted in listening, mutual appreciation, and a shared commitment to progress. It’s not just about performance on the pitch, but about character, mindset, and unity. That’s where real strength comes from both on and off the field.
How do you balance long-term strategy with the daily demands of football management?
In football, you have to perform every single day, it’s like following a fixture list with constantly changing opponents. But without a clear long term strategy, you risk just going from game to game without real progress. For me, it’s about always keeping the bigger picture in mind while staying flexible and responsive in the day-to-day.
It’s like a coach with a clear game model who adjusts tactics based on the opponent, this is how I balance vision and reality. Both are essential and interconnected.
Who has had the biggest influence on your journey?
I’ve learned from many people along the way, club presidents, coaches, and colleagues. Each of them left a mark. But what I understood very early on is that football is deeply emotional. Those who manage to combine that emotion with calmness, clear structure, and strong values can achieve lasting success. For me, that balance is key and it continues to shape my leadership approach to this day.
What kind of books or subjects do you enjoy reading?
One topic that constantly fascinates me is the past and the fact that certain patterns and lessons often repeat themselves. I believe that engaging with experienced,
well-educated, and successful people is crucial for my personal and professional growth. Through their perspectives and experiences, I gain valuable insights that help me not only avoid mistakes but also further build on existing strengths.
Historical events and the experiences of leaders often provide me with new approaches and inspiration to perform better in the present.
What’s your typical daily routine in your football executive role?
My day starts with an overview of key tasks, often involving communication with coaches, players, or other departments, with a lot of phone calls. I then allocate time for strategic projects to keep track of long term goals. The afternoon is usually reserved for meetings on tactical and personnel matters. Maintaining close contact with people at the club is important to me. In the evening, I stay updated on football developments or continue my learning.
What was the most memorable moment of your time at the Turkish Football Federation, and how does it shape your approach today?
A particularly memorable moment was Euro 2024 in Germany. Three years earlier, I had taken over the team, initially with a German coach and later with an Italian one. In that short time, we rejuvenated the squad and shaped them into a true unit. Euro 2024 was the confirmation that the path we chose was the right one, and that the work we put in had paid off. It showed me how crucial it is to plan long term and build the right team spirit to achieve great success even in a short time.
What’s next for Hamit Altıntop in your career and beyond?
I want to shape the next generation of players and leaders by instilling the values and skills that are crucial in modern football. I enjoy measuring myself against the best and am always striving to improve. I set high standards for myself and expect the same from those I work with. This level of expectation, both for myself and others, is a key part of my leadership style and philosophy.
Entre la tradición y la visión global: el momento clave para apostar por México.
México es mucho más que cifras o datos financieros, es un país con profundas tradiciones culturales y una pasión incomparable por el futbol. Cada ciudad ofrece una identidad única, con su gastronomía, festivales y costumbres, generando un entorno especial que se une con la cultura futbolística del país. Esta conexión emocional con el futbol se transmite de generación en generación, y la lealtad a los clubes es una tradición arraigada y poderosa.
Esa pasión se traduce en una de las bases de aficionados más grandes del mundo. La Liga MX, la principal competencia profesional del país, es la liga de futbol más vista en América del Norte, superando a la Major League Soccer (MLS) e incluso compitiendo con algunas ligas europeas en términos de audiencia televisiva. Con más de 70 millones de seguidores, el futbol mexicano se ha consolidado como un producto altamente atractivo para patrocinadores y cadenas televisivas.
Los acuerdos de la Liga MX con diversos medios nacionales e internacionales han ampliado significativamente su alcance, fortaleciendo su presencia en mercados estratégicos como Estados Unidos, donde más de 36 millones de latinos siguen activamente el futbol mexicano. Este impacto ha potenciado los ingresos de los clubes mediante patrocinios y derechos de transmisión, contribuyendo a un ecosistema financiero más sólido. A pesar de su enorme audiencia, la Liga MX sigue siendo un activo poco desarrollado dentro del panorama global de inversión deportiva. Su liderazgo dentro del mercado hispano en EE. UU. la coloca por encima de la Premier League y la MLS en ese segmento clave, representando una oportunidad que aún no ha sido explotada a fondo por los inversionistas.
Invertir en la Liga MX no es solo apostar por una liga competitiva, es integrarse a una cultura que combina pasión, música, comida y futbol. Esta mezcla de riqueza cultural y compromiso deportivo hace de México un entorno inigualable para el crecimiento, donde el mercado no solo es rentable, sino profundamente atractivo. Hoy, factores como los cambios políticos, el Mundial de 2026, el interés de capital extranjero y la arraigada cultura futbolística del país se están alineando para posicionar a la Liga MX como una de las mejores oportunidades de inversión deportiva de esta década. La reciente oferta de Apollo Global Management para adquirir una participación en los derechos de transmisión internacional de la liga es un claro reflejo de su creciente atractivo para el capital global.
El Efecto Mundialista (2026)
Como uno de los países anfitriones de la Copa Mundial de la FIFA 2026, México está atravesando una etapa de importantes mejoras en infraestructura deportiva, logística y servicios turísticos. Estas inversiones no solo enriquecerán la experiencia del torneo, sino que también fortalecerán el atractivo comercial de la Liga MX a largo plazo, convirtiéndola en un activo aún más valioso para inversionistas y actores estratégicos.
CIUDAD
ESTADIO
INVERSIÓN (USD$)
Ciudad de México
Estadio Azteca
$150M
Guadalajara
Estadio Akron
$80M
Monterrey
Estadio BBVA
$70M
Contexto Político y Económico: Un Terreno Estable para Invertir
La elección de Claudia Sheinbaum como presidenta de México en 2024 ha reforzado la estabilidad económica y la confianza para invertir, garantizando la continuidad en el desarrollo de infraestructura y el crecimiento del mercado. Su administración impulsa alianzas público-privadas, atrayendo a compañías globales como Toyota, Volvo e Intel, al mismo tiempo que fomenta zonas económicas y polos de talento.
Estas empresas están realizando inversiones de alto impacto en México: Toyota destinó 1,450 millones de dólares para modernizar sus plantas; Volvo invierte 700 millones en una fábrica de camiones en Monterrey; e Intel ha comprometido 20,000 millones para expandir la producción de semiconductores en Chihuahua, consolidando el papel de México en las industrias automotriz y tecnológica.
El “Plan México”, una iniciativa conjunta entre el gobierno y el sector privado, busca detonar el desarrollo industrial, el nearshoring y la competitividad económica, fortaleciendo sectores estratégicos y facilitando la inversión extranjera.
Además, proyectos clave como el Corredor Interoceánico del Istmo de Tehuantepec están impulsando la conectividad comercial entre el Pacífico y el Atlántico, mientras que el plan nacional de expansión ferroviaria está revitalizando el transporte de carga y pasajeros, reforzando la red logística del país.
Con un entorno macroeconómico estable, un marco regulatorio en evolución y una creciente apertura a la inversión extranjera, la Liga MX se posiciona en el centro de una industria dinámica, con alto potencial de crecimiento y atracción de capital internacional sin precedentes.
Graph: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Mexico (2018-2024)
La Mina de Oro de los Derechos de Televisión: Centralización y Potencial de Crecimiento
La Liga MX sigue dominando la televisión en Estados Unidos, especialmente entre las audiencias hispanas y bilingües, con clubes como Chivas y Club América rompiendo regularmente récords de audiencia. Esta base de aficionados ha convertido a la Liga MX en una de las ligas más vistas de América del Norte, superando incluso a la Premier League y la MLS en demográficos clave. Sin embargo, a pesar de su alcance masivo, los derechos de transmisión de la liga siguen fragmentados, lo que deja importantes ingresos sin aprovechar.
La Federación Mexicana de Fútbol (FMF) está trabajando para centralizar los derechos de transmisión para 2028, con el objetivo de unificar los derechos de la Liga MX, la selección nacional de México y los patrocinadores. Este esfuerzo de centralización busca crear un modelo más eficiente y financieramente ventajoso para todos los involucrados. Al consolidar los derechos, la federación cree que el potencial comercial aumentará, haciendo que el mercado en general sea más atractivo y rentable para los inversionistas.
El cambio hacia la centralización de los derechos de transmisión se espera que iguale la distribución de los ingresos entre los clubes, lo que permitirá a los equipos reinvertir en su infraestructura y mejorar su competitividad. Esta medida no solo fortalecerá la estabilidad financiera, sino que también posicionará a la Liga MX para un crecimiento futuro, más oportunidades de patrocinio y una mayor presencia en el mercado global del fútbol. El impulso hacia la innovación en streaming y los derechos de transmisión consolidados refuerza aún más a la Liga MX como una de las propiedades futbolísticas más valiosas sin explotar a nivel mundial.
Bar Graph: Average U.S. Viewership per Match (2023)
Hacia una Potencia Regional: El Papel de la Leagues Cup y el Camino hacia la Integración
El esfuerzo por centralizar los derechos de transmisión de la Liga MX no es solo una reforma interna, sino una estrategia alineada con ambiciones regionales más amplias. A medida que la Liga MX consolida su estructura mediática y aumenta su atractivo comercial, se convierte en un socio más viable en la integración continua con la Major League Soccer (MLS) y la Canadian Premier League.
Uno de los ejemplos más claros de esta sinergia creciente es la Leagues Cup, un torneo que rápidamente ha evolucionado hacia una competencia de alto riesgo y alta recompensa. Con un fondo de premios de aproximadamente 40 millones de dólares, el torneo ofrece incentivos significativos:
200,000 dólares por partido en la fase de grupos, divididos equitativamente entre el club y los jugadores.
Bonos de 50,000 dólares por cada victoria en la fase de grupos.
Hasta 2 millones de dólares para el campeón, combinando las ganancias por partido y los bonos de la fase final.
Estas cifras demuestran el impacto económico serio de la competencia y su creciente prestigio. Pero más allá del dinero en premios, la Leagues Cup sirve como un campo de pruebas para lo que muchos ven como el futuro del fútbol norteamericano: una liga regional que reúna lo mejor de la MLS, la Liga MX y Canadá bajo un modelo de competencia unificado.
Una liga transfronteriza no solo mejoraría la competitividad, sino que también ampliaría dramáticamente las oportunidades comerciales y de transmisión. Con derechos centralizados y asociaciones conjuntas, la región podría atraer acuerdos de medios, patrocinios e inversiones sin precedentes. Para los clubes, esto significa mayor estabilidad financiera, mejor infraestructura y mejores caminos para el desarrollo de jugadores. Para los aficionados, promete un fútbol de mayor calidad y una experiencia más inmersiva.
A medida que se acerca la Copa del Mundo 2026, que se celebrará de manera conjunta entre Estados Unidos, México y Canadá, el impulso hacia un ecosistema futbolístico regional es innegable. La Leagues Cup, con su creciente popularidad e incentivos financieros, podría ser el modelo para la próxima era del deporte en América del Norte.
Historias de Éxito Recientes: Cómo los Inversores Extranjeros Están Transformando la Liga MX
Necaxa y Atlético San Luis destacan como ejemplos clave de la creciente influencia de la inversión extranjera en la Liga MX. En 2021, NX Football USA LLC adquirió una participación en Necaxa, lo que trajo consigo un modelo de gestión innovador que ha fortalecido tanto las estructuras deportivas como comerciales del club. Esta inversión ha permitido a Necaxa mejorar su infraestructura, ampliar sus estrategias de marketing y establecer valiosas conexiones con ejecutivos e inversores de la MLS y la Premier League. Inversores destacados en Necaxa incluyen a Eva Longoria, Mesut Özil y Al Tylis, lo que resalta el atractivo internacional de los clubes de la Liga MX.
Necaxa ha pasado por un proceso de rebranding, posicionándose como un club moderno y orientado al análisis de datos. Ha puesto un fuerte énfasis en el desarrollo de jóvenes, utilizando análisis avanzados para identificar y nutrir talento joven, asegurando así su sostenibilidad a largo plazo y competitividad.
De manera similar, Atlético San Luis, propiedad del Atlético de Madrid, aprovecha una estrategia de pipeline de talento, facilitando el movimiento de jugadores prometedores entre México y España. El club también se beneficia de la sinergia con su club matriz, aplicando metodologías europeas en el desarrollo de jugadores, la planificación táctica y el scouting.
Ambos clubes están redefiniendo sus estrategias comerciales y adoptando mejores prácticas internacionales, demostrando que la Liga MX es un mercado cada vez más atractivo para los inversores extranjeros. El éxito de Necaxa y Atlético San Luis señala el potencial para una mayor modernización y expansión global dentro del fútbol mexicano.
Una Oportunidad para los Modelos de Propiedad Multiclub Globales
Dado el estado actual del fútbol mexicano, caracterizado por una mayor apertura a la inversión extranjera, flexibilidad regulatoria y una creciente necesidad de modernización, no sería sorprendente que grupos globalmente reconocidos de propiedad multiclub (MCO, por sus siglas en inglés), como Red Bull y City Football Group, que ya han adquirido clubes en esta región, o Eagle Football Holdings y el Grupo Pozzo, que aún no han adquirido ninguno, invirtieran en un club de la Liga MX en un futuro cercano.
La Liga MX ofrece un entorno ideal para que estos grupos expandan sus redes: una gran base de fanáticos apasionados, una fuerte presencia mediática en los EE. UU. y América Latina, y clubes que buscan asociaciones estratégicas para elevar sus modelos deportivos y comerciales. Las condiciones están alineadas, y la oportunidad es propicia.
Cronología de los Principales Momentos de Inversión en la Liga MX
El ascenso de la Liga MX como una oportunidad clave de inversión ha sido marcado por varios momentos fundamentales. A continuación, se presenta una cronología que detalla los principales hitos en su evolución:
Un Mercado en Crecimiento con Puntos de Entrada Flexibles
El mercado de franquicias de la Liga MX ha experimentado un crecimiento constante, con valoraciones que comienzan en aproximadamente $130 millones de dólares, incluyendo los activos del club. Sin embargo, los modelos de adquisición estructurados, como las inversiones escalonadas o asociaciones estratégicas, ofrecen a los inversionistas oportunidades de entrada desde 30 a 40 millones de dólares. Estos marcos de inversión flexibles permiten a los socios de capital expandir gradualmente su participación en la propiedad mientras aprovechan el potencial comercial y deportivo de una de las ligas de fútbol más dinámicas y comercialmente viables de las Américas. Además, adquirir una franquicia otorga derechos de voto en los procesos de toma de decisiones de la liga, lo que permite a los inversionistas influir activamente en la dirección estratégica y la gobernanza de la liga.
Actualmente, se están llevando a cabo discusiones sobre la posible expansión de la Liga MX a 20 equipos para 2026. Los informes sugieren que dos nuevas franquicias de la Liga MX podrían ser vendidas al mejor postor, lo que señala un posible cambio en el enfoque de la liga sobre el crecimiento y la gobernanza. Aunque aún no se ha confirmado, este desarrollo podría abrir nuevas oportunidades de inversión, reforzando el atractivo de la Liga MX como un mercado de fútbol dinámico y financieramente en evolución. Los inversionistas deben monitorear de cerca estos cambios a medida que la liga sigue explorando formas de fortalecer su ecosistema financiero.
El Caso León y las Oportunidades de Gobernanza
Un incidente reciente relacionado con la descalificación de León del Mundial de Clubes debido a problemas con la documentación ha desatado una conversación más amplia sobre la gobernanza en la Liga MX. Esta situación ha provocado una reevaluación de las prácticas de gestión de riesgos y cumplimiento, abriendo oportunidades para que los inversionistas aporten mayor sofisticación a las operaciones de los clubes. Para más detalles sobre este caso y su impacto más amplio en la Liga MX, consulte nuestro artículo detallado aquí.
La probable exclusión del Club León del Mundial de Clubes de la FIFA debido a problemas con la estructura de propiedad refuerza la postura firme de la FIFA contra la propiedad de múltiples clubes. Este desarrollo presiona a la Liga MX a acelerar las reformas de gobernanza y pone a clubes como Atlas, Santos, Querétaro y Puebla—que actualmente forman parte de grupos de propiedad compartida—en el centro de atención como posibles objetivos de adquisición.
Para los inversionistas, este es un momento estratégico: a medida que los cambios regulatorios exigen mayor transparencia e independencia, los nuevos socios de capital tienen una oportunidad única para ingresar al mercado de fútbol mexicano, adquirir participaciones mayoritarias y ayudar a liderar la profesionalización de las operaciones de los clubes en una de las ligas con mayor proyección comercial en las Américas.
Experiencia en el Desarrollo Juvenil: El Valor Oculto de las Academias de la Liga MX
La Liga MX alberga algunos de los sistemas de desarrollo juvenil más robustos del mundo, con clubes que invierten fuertemente en instalaciones de última generación, complejos de entrenamiento y casas club que nutren el talento joven. Estas infraestructuras incluyen instalaciones deportivas de clase mundial, viviendas para los jugadores de la academia, y personal operativo y de entrenadores dedicado, todo con el objetivo de desarrollar jugadores que puedan competir en los más altos niveles. Clubes como el CF Pachuca, Club Santos Laguna y el CF América han invertido durante mucho tiempo en estas infraestructuras, asegurando que los jugadores jóvenes reciban una formación de primer nivel, atención médica y entrenamientos adecuados. Instalaciones como las de Pachuca y Santos Laguna son tan avanzadas que albergarán equipos internacionales durante la Copa Mundial de 2026. Estas instituciones ya no son solo campos de entrenamiento; son incubadoras de alto rendimiento capaces de producir talento de clase mundial.
Para los inversionistas, el desarrollo juvenil no es solo un gasto; es un activo de alto potencial en un mercado global en crecimiento. Tomemos este camino de desarrollo como ejemplo:
1 año en U13: $15,000
• 1 año en U15: $15,000
• 2 años en U18: $20,000
• 2 años en U23: $34,000 • Total de inversión: $138,000 USD
Esta cifra cubre entrenamientos, nutrición, atención médica, alojamiento y viajes. Recientemente, un club de nivel medio vendió a uno de sus jugadores de la academia por 6 millones de dólares, lo que generó un notable retorno de inversión (ROI) de 44x.
El enfoque en el desarrollo juvenil es evidente en la creciente énfasis en proporcionar a los jugadores jóvenes acceso a entrenadores de élite y exposición a ambientes de primer equipo. La combinación de instalaciones de alta calidad y personal especializado ofrece un camino claro para que el talento joven suba de categoría y finalmente llegue al fútbol profesional.
Como resultado, este desarrollo estructurado no solo beneficia a los clubes nacionales, sino que también refuerza la creciente confianza que los equipos europeos tienen en las academias de la Liga MX. En los últimos años, varios jugadores mexicanos jóvenes se han transferido a clubes europeos después de completar su desarrollo juvenil en México, a menudo con poca exposición al primer equipo en la Liga MX. Esto subraya la efectividad de estas academias en la producción de talento de alto potencial que puede atraer inmediatamente el interés de los mercados internacionales.
Ejemplo de Caso: Stephano Carrillo, desarrollado en Santos Laguna y vendido a Europa por 4 millones de dólares en el reciente mercado invernal, ejemplifica esta tendencia. Su transferencia es parte de una nueva ola de talento que demuestra que las academias de la Liga MX no solo son competitivas en el desarrollo de jugadores, sino también financieramente valiosas en el mercado global.
Transferencias Históricas: El Ascenso del Talento Mexicano en el Fútbol Europeo
JUGADOR
CLUB LIGA MX
CLUB EXTRANJERO
COSTO DE TRASPASO (€M)
Santi Giménez
Cruz Azul
Feyenoord
6
Edson Álvarez
América
Ajax
15
Diego Lainez
América
Real Betis
14
Raúl Jiménez
América
Atlético Madrid
10.5
César Montes
Monterrey
Espanyol
8
Hirving Lozano
Pachuca
PSV
12
Cesar Huerta
Pumas
Anderlecht
2.5
Rodrigo Huescas
Cruz Azul
FC Copenhagen
2
En los últimos años, varios jugadores mexicanos han dado el salto de la Liga MX a los principales clubes europeos, lo que demuestra la capacidad de la liga para desarrollar talento exportable. Esta tabla destaca algunas de las transferencias más notables durante este período.
El fútbol mexicano posee un talento inmenso, pero las exportaciones de jugadores a Europa siguen siendo limitadas en comparación con países como Brasil y Argentina. Si bien las transferencias recientes indican un progreso, México debe perfeccionar su estrategia para convertirse en una fuente constante de talento. Uno de los desafíos clave a superar son los altos costos de transferencia, que desincentivan a los clubes europeos a perseguir jugadores mexicanos. Además, la visibilidad internacional limitada del fútbol mexicano reduce las oportunidades de scouting, y las brechas en el desarrollo dejan a los jugadores sin la preparación necesaria para las exigencias de las principales ligas europeas. Para fomentar el crecimiento, es crucial adoptar negociaciones más flexibles que faciliten las transferencias, fortalecer asociaciones con clubes europeos para una mayor exposición, y mejorar los programas de scouting y formación para asegurar que los jugadores cumplan con los estándares del fútbol de élite. Además, proporcionar más tiempo de juego para el talento joven en la Liga MX es esencial para darles la experiencia necesaria para triunfar en los niveles más altos.
México tiene el talento para competir a nivel global, pero se necesitan mejoras estructurales. Al alinearse con las mejores prácticas internacionales, la Liga MX puede convertirse en un importante exportador de jugadores de clase mundial.
Mexicanos en el Extranjero: Una Oportunidad a Largo Plazo, No una Solución a Corto Plazo
Aunque el modelo de integrar a los nacionales duales mexicano-estadounidenses en los clubes de la Liga MX no es actualmente una estrategia viable ni comprobada, sigue siendo un concepto con un considerable potencial a largo plazo. En la actualidad, las limitaciones clave—como la falta de infraestructura de integración, bajas tasas de conversión de prospectos a jugadores de impacto y retornos financieros inciertos—han impedido su adopción generalizada. Sin embargo, el creciente grupo de talento desarrollado en EE. UU. con herencia mexicana, combinado con la ventaja de registrarlos como jugadores nacionales, sugiere que con la inversión adecuada en scouting, programas de adaptación y planificación institucional, este enfoque podría evolucionar hacia una vía competitiva y rentable. Tal como están las cosas, esto es menos una solución a corto plazo y más una estrategia orientada hacia el futuro—una que requerirá visión, compromiso y estructura para desbloquear su pleno valor.
Liga MX: Un Puente Estratégico a los Mercados Globales de Fútbol
La Liga MX se ha establecido como un paso vital para los jugadores extranjeros que aspiran a llegar a las principales ligas internacionales. Los clubes mexicanos han construido una sólida reputación en cuanto a scouting, desarrollo y exhibición de talento—particularmente de América Central y Sudamérica—adquiriendo a menudo jugadores a un costo relativamente bajo y vendiéndolos más tarde con una ganancia significativa. Esta dinámica ha posicionado a la Liga MX como un intermediario estratégico dentro del ecosistema global de transferencias.
Ahora, la liga está en una posición única para dar un paso más al liderar el desarrollo de un modelo de “liga puente” regional. A través de alianzas estratégicas y sistemas de alimentadores con clubes en todo América, la Liga MX podría formalizar una vía de talento que conecte a jugadores emergentes de Centro y Sudamérica con oportunidades en EE. UU. y Europa.
Tal estructura permitiría a los clubes identificar y nutrir el talento joven de manera más temprana, ofreciéndoles desarrollo en un entorno competitivo y visiblemente comercial antes de facilitar su traslado al extranjero. También mejoraría el papel de la Liga MX como un centro de circulación de talento en el Hemisferio Occidental, reforzando su relevancia deportiva y potencial financiero.
En el panorama futbolístico interconectado de hoy, la Liga MX tiene la infraestructura, visibilidad e influencia en el mercado para liderar la creación de un sistema de desarrollo sostenible y transfronterizo—uno que beneficie tanto a jugadores, clubes como inversionistas.
La siguiente tabla muestra ejemplos notables de jugadores extranjeros que hicieron la transición desde la Liga MX a clubes en el extranjero.
JUGADOR
CLUB LIGA MX
COSTO DE ADQUISICION (€)
CLUB EXTRANJERO
COSTO DE TRASPASO (€M)
Enner Valencia
Pachuca
3.2 m
West Ham United
15
Julian Quiñones
América
9.1 m
Al-Qadisiya
13.8
Mateus Uribe
América
5 m
FC Porto
9.5
Jackson Martínez
Jaguares de Chiapas
2.8 m
FC Porto
8.8
Guido Pizarro
Tigres UANL
3 m
Sevilla FC
8.7
Brian Fernández
Necaxa
600 k
Portland Timbers
9
Alberth Elis
Monterrey
300 k
Houston Dynamo
2.2
Ventaja Geográfica y Climática: Un Centro Estratégico para la Actividad Internacional
Más allá de su infraestructura futbolística, el clima templado de México representa una ventaja estratégica para clubes nacionales e internacionales. La diversidad geográfica del país ofrece condiciones óptimas para realizar pretemporadas, partidos amistosos y campamentos de entrenamiento prácticamente en cualquier momento del año. Esta capacidad de albergar actividad futbolística sin interrupciones favorece el desarrollo constante de jugadores, así como la realización de torneos durante todo el calendario.
Esto convierte a México en un destino atractivo no solo para futbolistas y aficionados, sino también para equipos de Europa, Norteamérica y otras regiones que podrían considerar al país como una base confiable para sus actividades fuera de temporada. Además de fortalecer la economía local, esta dinámica abre oportunidades de marketing global y genera mayor visibilidad internacional para los clubes de la Liga MX a través de eventos de alto perfil y estrategias de vinculación entre mercados.
Oportunidades de Inversión en Expansión en Liga MX Femenil
La Liga MX Femenil ha crecido rápidamente hasta convertirse en una de las ligas de fútbol femenino más competitivas de la región. A diferencia de otros mercados, cada club de la Liga MX está obligado a tener un equipo femenino, lo que hace que la propiedad de franquicias sea aún más atractiva para los inversores.
Esta estructura no solo mejora la competitividad de la liga, sino que también abre nuevas fuentes de ingresos a través de patrocinios, derechos de transmisión y ventas de mercancías. Además, la creciente presencia de jugadoras mexicanas en ligas internacionales de alto nivel refuerza la credibilidad y la capacidad de comercialización de la liga. Para los inversores, la Liga MX Femenil ofrece tanto un potencial financiero como la oportunidad de contribuir a la equidad de género en el deporte.
Un Momento Definitivo para la Inversión en Liga MX
La Liga MX se encuentra al borde de una oportunidad histórica, al combinar una rica cultura futbolística con perspectivas de crecimiento dinámicas. Con la Copa Mundial de la FIFA 2026 en el horizonte, la liga está lista para una exposición global, aumento de fuentes de ingresos y una reputación mejorada. Las reformas estructurales están modernizando la gobernanza, mientras que la afluencia de inversión extranjera está mejorando la gestión de los clubes y la infraestructura, llevando a la liga a nuevas alturas.
El mercado binacional único de México, junto con su pasión inquebrantable por el fútbol, hace de la Liga MX un destino principal para los inversores que buscan oportunidades de alto rendimiento en un mercado deportivo en rápida evolución. No es solo una potencia regional; es un mercado global de fútbol en formación.
Para aquellos que buscan hacer un impacto significativo en la industria deportiva, la Liga MX ofrece un terreno fértil para inversiones estratégicas. Este es el momento para que las inversiones visionarias impulsen al fútbol mexicano a su máximo potencial. La oportunidad de dar forma al futuro de la liga y aprovechar su creciente influencia en el escenario global nunca ha sido tan clara.
FIFA, 4 Mart 2025’ten itibaren geçerli olmak üzere Menajerlik Sınavında önemli yapısal değişiklikler yapmıştır. Bu güncellemeler, önceki fiziksel sınav merkezlerinde yapılan yüz yüze değerlendirmelerden tamamen çevrimiçi bir formata geçişi ifade etmektedir. Yeni sistem, daha sıkı gözetim protokolleri ve revize edilmiş teknik gereksinimler içermektedir. Bu değişiklikler, sınavın adalet, şeffaflık ve standartlaştırma ilkelerine daha uygun olmasını sağlamak amacıyla yapılmıştır. Böylece tüm adayların, konumlarından bağımsız olarak, aynı denetim altında ve eşit şartlarda sınava girmesi sağlanacaktır.
Önceki sistemde adaylar, sınavı kendi ülkelerindeki Ulusal Futbol Federasyonları tarafından belirlenen test merkezlerinde yüz yüze tamamlamak zorundaydı. Bu sistem kontrollü sınav koşulları sunarken, sınav ortamlarında önemli farklılıklar bulunuyordu. Bazı federasyonlar teknik destek, internet erişimi ve sınav salonu olanakları açısından daha iyi şartlar sunarken, diğerleri sınırlı imkanlar sağlayabiliyordu. Ayrıca, adayların sınav sırasında kullanabileceği materyaller konusunda da tutarsızlıklar vardı; bazı federasyonlar basılı notlar (kişisel notlar içeren basılı kopyalar dahil) kullanılmasına izin verirken, diğerleri daha sıkı kısıtlamalar uyguluyordu.
FIFA, tüm fiziksel sınav merkezlerini kaldırarak sınavı tamamen çevrimiçi bir formata geçirdi. Adayların artık sınavı kendi belirledikleri özel bir ortamda tamamlamaları gerekmektedir. Bu değişiklik, sınav koşullarının oluşturulması konusunda adaylara daha büyük bir sorumluluk yüklemektedir. Adayların, gerekli teknolojiye, istikrarlı bir internet bağlantısına ve uygun bir çalışma alanına sahip olmaları zorunludur. Yeni sistem, güvenlik önlemlerini artırarak adayların bilgisayarlarında kamera ve mikrofon erişiminin zorunlu hale getirilmesini ve ek olarak bir akıllı telefon üzerinden ikinci bir gözetim mekanizmasının kullanılmasını içermektedir. Önceden, gözetmenler sınav merkezlerinde fiziksel olarak adayları denetlerken, artık FIFA yapay zeka destekli izleme araçlarını kullanarak aday davranışlarını gerçek zamanlı olarak takip edecek ve şüpheli faaliyetleri tespit edecektir.
Bir diğer önemli değişiklik, 60 dakikalık sınav süresi boyunca ara verilmesine tamamen yasak getirilmesidir. Önceden, adaylar denetimli koşullarda tuvalet molası alabiliyordu, ancak yeni sistemde herhangi bir kesintiye izin verilmemektedir. Sınav başladıktan sonra adayların kamera karşısında görünür olması ve oturdukları yerde kalmaları zorunludur. Adayın yerinden kalkması, uzun süre ekrandan uzaklaşması veya internet bağlantısının kopması durumunda sınav denemesi derhal geçersiz sayılacak ve aday bir sonraki sınav oturumuna yeniden başvurmak zorunda kalacaktır.
FIFA ayrıca sınav usulsüzlükleri konusunda daha katı kurallar getirmiştir. Önceki sistemde, izinsiz iletişim kurmak, dış materyallere erişmek veya elektronik cihaz kullanmak gibi ihlaller sadece o oturumdan diskalifiye edilmeye yol açabiliyor ve adaylar bir sonraki sınava sorunsuz bir şekilde başvurabiliyordu. Ancak yeni düzenlemelere göre, kopya çekme, ekran görüntüsü alma veya sınav içeriğini dışarıya sızdırma gibi ciddi ihlaller, adayın gelecekteki sınavlara katılmaktan men edilmesine neden olabilir. Ağır ihlallerde, adayın FIFA menajeri lisansı alma hakkı kalıcı olarak iptal edilebilir.
Bu güncellemelerle birlikte FIFA, sınav sürecini küresel ölçekte daha tutarlı ve sıkı bir şekilde düzenlemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Adayların teknik gerekliliklere tam olarak uyması ve sınav kurallarını eksiksiz anlaması gerekmektedir; aksi takdirde, sınav denemeleri geçersiz sayılabilir.
Sınav Formatı ve Başarı Koşulları
FIFA Menajerlik Sınavı artık tamamen çevrimiçi olarak yapılmaktadır ve fiziksel sınav merkezleri kaldırılmıştır. Bu değişiklik, adayların belirlenen test merkezlerine seyahat etme zorunluluğunu ortadan kaldırırken, sınav koşullarının sağlanması konusundaki sorumluluğu adaylara yüklemektedir. Sınav süresi 60 dakika olup, başarılı olmak için adayların en az %75 puan alması gerekmektedir.
Sınav, adayların FIFA düzenlemeleri hakkındaki bilgilerini değerlendiren çoktan seçmeli sorulardan oluşmaktadır. Sorular, oyuncu transferleri, sözleşmeler, menajer sorumlulukları ve genel futbol yönetimi gibi konuları kapsamaktadır. Sınav yalnızca teorik bilgi ölçmekle kalmayıp, adayların FIFA kurallarını gerçek dünya senaryolarında nasıl uygulayabileceğini de değerlendirmektedir.
Yeni sistemde molalar tamamen kaldırılmıştır. Önceden adaylar denetimli koşullarda tuvalet molası alabiliyordu, ancak artık sınav boyunca hiçbir kesintiye izin verilmemektedir. Sınav başladıktan sonra adaylar kamera karşısında görünür, oturur ve teste odaklanmış şekilde kalmalıdır. Teknik bir sorun, kişisel ihtiyaç veya kazara bağlantı kopması nedeniyle sınavdan ayrılan adaylar otomatik olarak diskalifiye edilecek ve bir sonraki sınav oturumuna kadar beklemek zorunda kalacaktır.
Bu sıkı koşullar göz önüne alındığında, FIFA adayların sınav öncesinde cihazlarını, internet bağlantılarını ve teknik ekipmanlarını önceden test etmelerini şiddetle tavsiye etmektedir.
Teknik Gereksinimler ve Kurulum
FIFA, sınavın tamamen çevrimiçi olarak gerçekleştirilmesi nedeniyle belirli teknik gereksinimler belirlemiştir. Adaylar, sınav sırasında teknik destek almayacakları için sınav koşullarını sağlamak ve sürdürmekten tamamen kendileri sorumludur.
Sınava girebilmek için adayların aşağıdaki gereksinimleri karşılaması gerekmektedir:
Kamera ve mikrofonu açık olan bir dizüstü veya masaüstü bilgisayar. FIFA’nın izleme sistemi, adayların davranışlarını takip etmek için bu cihazlara ihtiyaç duymaktadır.
İkincil gözetim amacıyla kullanılacak bir akıllı telefon. Bu telefon, adayın çalışma alanını farklı bir açıdan göstermek için konumlandırılmalıdır.
Kararlı ve güvenilir bir internet bağlantısı. FIFA, sınav sırasında bağlantının kesilmesi durumunda denemenin geçersiz sayılacağını ve adayın sınavı tekrar edemeyeceğini açıklamıştır.
FIFA, adayların sınavdan önce cihazlarını test etmelerini, internet hızlarını kontrol etmelerini ve kamera-mikrofon işlevlerini doğrulamalarını önermektedir.
İzin Verilen ve Yasaklanan Eşyalar
✔️ İzin Verilenler
Dijital formatta kayıtlı çalışma materyalleri (yalnızca sınavın yapıldığı bilgisayarda saklanmış olmalıdır).
Reçeteli gözlükler.
Not almak için bir kalem ve boş bir kağıt. Ancak, kağıt sınavdan önce ve sonra kameraya gösterilmelidir.
Mobil telefonlar (yalnızca gözetim amacıyla kullanılan telefon hariç).
Akıllı saatler, kulaklıklar veya internete bağlanabilen diğer akıllı cihazlar.
FIFA sınav platformu dışında herhangi bir web sitesine erişim.
Basılı belgeler, el yazısı notlar veya fiziksel çalışma materyalleri.
Fiziksel hesap makineleri.
FIFA, sınav sırasında yetkisiz materyallere erişim sağlamaya çalışan veya kuralları ihlal eden adayların diskalifiye edileceğini ve gelecekteki sınavlara katılmalarının yasaklanabileceğini açıklamıştır. Adayların, sınav öncesinde çalışma alanlarını titizlikle kontrol etmeleri ve tüm kurallara tam uyum sağlamaları önemlidir.
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