The World Leagues Association (WLA) and the Azerbaijan Professional Football League (PFL) are pleased to announce that the PFL has officially joined the WLA as its newest member, reinforcing the global network of professional football leagues.
Founded in 2008, the Azerbaijan Professional Football League is responsible for organizing and managing the country’s professional club competitions, including the Azerbaijan Premier League, Azerbaijan’s top-tier professional competition, as well as the First Division and national cup competitions. Over recent years, the PFL has modernized and professionalized football in Azerbaijan through improvements in competition management, club licensing, commercial development, broadcasting, infrastructure, and fan engagement.
The PFL has also worked closely with clubs and stakeholders to strengthen governance standards and create a more sustainable framework for the long-term development of domestic football.
As a member of the World Leagues Association, the PFL will join a global network representing around 50 professional leagues across every continent. Membership will provide the league with access to international expertise, cooperation and the exchange of best practices, including governance, commercial development, player relations, competition organization, legal and regulatory matters, and innovation.
Founded in 2016, the World Leagues Association represents professional football leagues worldwide and works to strengthen the role of national competitions within football’s international governance structures. The organization promotes cooperation among leagues and advocates for the sustainable and balanced development of the professional game globally.
Elkhan Samedov, President of the Azerbaijan Professional Football League, said: “Joining the World Leagues Association is an important milestone for professional football in Azerbaijan. In recent years, we have focused on improving the organization and visibility of our competitions while strengthening the professional structures of our clubs and league. Becoming part of the World Leagues Association will give us the opportunity to collaborate with leading leagues from all around the world, exchange experiences and expertise, and contribute to discussions on the future of professional football. We believe this cooperation will support the continued growth of Azerbaijani football both on and off the pitch.”
Welcoming the PFL to the organization, Jerome Perlemuter, General Secretary of the World Leagues Association, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Azerbaijan Professional Football League to the World Leagues Association. The PFL has demonstrated a strong commitment to developing professional football through governance, league management and long-term development. We look forward to working with the PFL and supporting its development through international cooperation.”
