Tahir Gözel: “I believe we will achieve even greater success”

Our club’s president, Tahir Gözel, shared his thoughts on the results of 2025, calling it a successful year for Qarabağ Football Club:

“The past year was filled with countless unforgettable moments on the pitch – from tears of joy to moments of pride and excitement. In 2025, Qarabağ once again established its name at the top, not only through results but also through the character, unwavering determination, and winning spirit demonstrated by the team. Concluding the 2024/25 season with great success and confidence, our team claimed the Azerbaijani championship for the 12th time, reaffirming its leadership in national football, and embarked on another historic journey in the UEFA Champions League from the second qualifying round.

Every match, every battle, and every moment of perseverance on the field during the qualifying rounds carried us to the UEFA Champions League group stage for the second time. Victories over European giants such as Benfica and Copenhagen were not just points on the table but a source of immense pride for all of Azerbaijani football. For the first time in history, Qarabağ became the first Azerbaijani team to win a match in the UEFA Champions League group stage, inscribing its name in the golden pages of our football history.

The magnificent, breathtaking, and pride-inducing struggle against Chelsea, the world club champions from England, once again demonstrated that Qarabağ has the strength to compete at the same level as Europe’s elite. Every point earned and every moment lived left an indelible mark in the hearts of millions of our supporters.

These achievements are no coincidence. Behind every victory and historic moment lies years of hard work, dedication, professionalism, and strong belief. Our team fought with dignity both domestically and internationally, preserving the reputation of Azerbaijani football and raising it to new heights.

The unwavering love and support of our fans, the determination of our players on the field, and the unity and family spirit within our club became the greatest victory and most valuable achievement of 2025. With this unity, confidence, and pride, we will continue toward even greater goals and higher peaks in the coming years. This path is called ‘Qarabağ,’ and this story is only just beginning.

On the occasion of December 31 – the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis and the New Year – I wholeheartedly congratulate our people. This significant day not only symbolizes the unity and solidarity of Azerbaijanis across the globe but also brings new hopes and goals for each of us at the threshold of the New Year. In particular, the support of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, for our country’s development and in the field of sports, including the successes of our team, is undeniable and gives us great motivation.

I also take this opportunity to sincerely congratulate the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, wishing him good health, continued success in his work for the development of our country, and the prosperity of our people.

I firmly believe that in the coming year, through unity, confidence, and perseverance, we will achieve even greater accomplishments. Our team will recognize its responsibility, work with full dedication, and bring new joys and moments of pride to our people. May 2026 be a successful, prosperous, and memorable year for every Azerbaijani".