Successful First Day of the #FootballForAll Festival in Bahrain
Successful First Day of the #FootballForAll Festival in Bahrain
The first day of the 2025 #FootballForAll Festival, organised by Para Football and the West Asian Football Federation (WAFF), concluded today in Bahrain, bringing together players, coaches and volunteers from Bahrain, Iraq and Jordan for a full programme of inclusive football activities.
Taking place on 2–3 December, the festival forms part of the ongoing Para Football–WAFF development partnership aimed at expanding accessible football opportunities for persons with disabilities across West Asia. The opening day highlighted the region’s shared commitment to building safe, enjoyable and inclusive environments for all participants.
Day 1 featured a series of adapted football skills sessions, mixed-team activities and coaching workshops focused on inclusive practice, safe session planning and communication on the field. Participants also enjoyed a friendly penalty shoot-out, creating opportunities for teamwork, confidence-building and cross-country interaction.
The festival follows a pan-disability approach, welcoming individuals with a range of impairments to participate in football in a supportive setting. Through the long-term cooperation between Para Football and WAFF, disability-inclusive methods continue to be integrated into regional football development, supported by capacity-building initiatives, safeguarding frameworks and the introduction of adapted formats.
Tomorrow, Day 2 will continue with small-sided 5v5 games and informal representative matches, concluding with a closing ceremony recognising the contributions and achievements of all participants.
Para Football and WAFF reaffirm their commitment to strengthening inclusive football across West Asia and ensuring that every person has the opportunity to play, belong and thrive through football.
