Batyr Joly National Football Conference Held in Astana

More than 200 delegates took part in the conference, including KFF Executive Committee members, senior executives and coaching staff from professional clubs, representatives of youth academies and regional football associations, football veterans, international speakers and members of the media. The event was structured around three key themes: strategic vision, international and national football identity, and the practical implementation of the project's core principles.

The official programme was opened by KFF President Marat Omarov, who outlined the key priorities of the Federation's ongoing reforms and highlighted the importance of uniting the entire football community behind a shared vision.

KFF General Secretary Scott Munn then addressed the audience, emphasising the importance of effective governance and clear operational standards, noting that sustainable success can only be achieved through a well-defined system.

KFF Technical Director Gennadiy Skurtul presented Kazakhstan's future football model, covering the national playing philosophy, player development methodology and coach education.

International best practice also featured prominently throughout the programme. FIFA and UEFA experts Steve Morrow and Aaron Briggs shared their experience of developing football identity, implementing modern player development methodologies and managing playing models.

Reflecting on the Batyr Joly Conference, FIFA expert, international scouting specialist and former Arsenal player Steve Morrow said:

"This is a hugely important message, and it is vital that everyone involved with the KFF, regardless of their role, fully understands what has been presented today. Everyone must move in the same direction and work towards the same objective. It is fantastic to see so many people here. They need to hear this message, embrace it and apply it in their daily work, whatever their role within the KFF."

UEFA and FIFA expert Aaron Briggs, who has previously worked with Manchester City, Liverpool, Monaco and Wolfsburg, also shared his thoughts:

"What really stood out to me were the characteristics associated with the people of Kazakhstan – their unity and the warrior spirit that was highlighted throughout the presentations. Bringing the whole country together is essential. That unity is critical to ensuring that everyone has a clear understanding of what it takes to represent Kazakhstan at national-team level."

Kazakhstan's football identity and sporting heritage were further explored during a panel discussion featuring legendary players and leading specialists Ruslan Baltiev, Samat Smakov, Vakhid Masudov, Begaim Kirgizbayeva and Nurbol Zhumaskaliyev. The discussion focused on player character development, continuity between generations and the continued growth of both the men's and women's game. The conference concluded with participants discussing practical steps towards implementing the Batyr Joly standards across every region of Kazakhstan.

For the KFF, the conference marked a strategically important step towards introducing world-class standards and establishing a unified football philosophy across Kazakhstan.