July 2 – The Football Federation of North Macedonia (FFM), in cooperation with UEFA, has launched the process of drafting a new development strategy for Macedonian football. 
 
As part of this initiative, a working meeting was held between FFM President Masar Omeragikj, federation representatives involved in the strategy’s preparation, and UEFA officials Ilija Kitic and Oleksandr Kucheryavyi, alongside mentors Adam Walker and Marcus McDonald. 
 
The meeting focused heavily on presenting and analysing the federation’s current situation, with a specific emphasis on financial stability. 
 

An analysis of income and expenditures highlighted the necessity for the FFM to maintain a strict policy of rational spending and cost-cutting, particularly by further reducing non-productive and non-football-related expenses. It also found that while significant cuts have already been implemented in certain sectors, long-term financial sustainability will require even greater discipline. As a result, every expense that does not directly contribute to the development of football will be reviewed and streamlined.  

The FFM has also completed a comprehensive mapping of football infrastructure and pitches across the country. 
 
For the first time, strategic decisions will be driven by concrete data, combining infrastructure mapping with demographic indicators and other relevant metrics to ensure future investments are directed where the need and potential are greatest. 
 
The creation of the new strategy involves all key stakeholders in Macedonian football, including: professional clubs, grassroots football representatives, coaches, referees, and match officials, players, fans, and partners. 

An FFM statement said: “By gathering diverse perspectives, ideas, and experiences, FFM aims to build a shared vision with clearly defined strategic goals for the next five years.  

“UEFA is providing full support throughout this process, offering tailored expertise and methodology to address the specific needs and challenges of Macedonian football. Through this partnership, the federation gains access to top European practices, ensuring the final strategy is realistic, sustainable, ambitious, and capable of elevating Macedonian football to the next level.” 

Contact the writer of this story, Alexander Krassimirov, at [email protected]