South Island United’s Christian Gray is red carded for taking out PNG Hekari FC’s John Orobulu.
Photo: Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.nz
Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will benefit the game across both confederations.
OFC president Lambert Maltock said the agreement, which runs until 30 June 2031 “marks an important step forward for football in Oceania”, with UEFA ready to assist in different development programs.
He said the agreement means opportunities for players, coaches, referees and administrators to learn, grow and gain international exposure, while strengthening the systems and pathways that will shape the next generation of football in the region.
“This agreement marks an important step forward for football in Oceania,” Maltock said in a statement follwoing signing of the MOU in Vancouver on 29 April.
“Our partnership with UEFA reflects a shared commitment to developing the game at every level – from grassroots to elite.
“It creates meaningful opportunities for our players, coaches, referees and administrators to learn, grow and gain international exposure, while strengthening the systems and pathways that will shape the next generation of football in our region.”
He said by investing in its people and working collaboratively, OFC is building a more connected, capable, and globally competitive football ecosystem for the region.
UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin said the MOU brings together UEFA’s experience in elite development and education with OFC’s clear focus on nurturing young talent and strengthening football leadership
“Europe and Oceania are connected by a shared belief in the importance of investing in people as the foundation of football’s future,” Ceferin commented.
“By supporting players and administrators alike, we aim to build sustainable pathways that enable the game to thrive around the world for generations to come.”
Areas that UEFA will assist in include youth football development, coach education, referee development, education and capacity building, amongst other things.
