"Football and sports must be separated from politics. Many say so, but unfortunately many also violate this principle. Because there have been many attempts to politicize sports, to use sports as a political tool, to transfer sports achievements onto a political plane.,"said Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev while receiving members of the "Qarabag" football club which reached the playoffs of the UEFA Conference League, APA reports.
"I have been President of the National Olympic Committee of Azerbaijan for 24 years. Over the years, I have repeatedly faced injustice in international competitions and the Olympic Games. The recent Olympics are no exception. Of course, we must not remain silent.
I know that "Qarabag" football club, the management and coaches always act with great dignity, do not raise a hue and cry over this like some other coaches and club leaders, do not create scandals and do not raise their hand. I welcome this. A strong person always behaves in an orderly manner, always uses his strength when necessary, and I welcome that. But this does not mean that such shameful events should happen to us every time. Therefore, I am convinced that the necessary legal steps should be taken in accordance with the rules adopted by the European football family, so that such cases do not happen again in the future.
At the same time, I must say why I pay so much attention to this. You know, like every citizen of Azerbaijan, my heart aches when I see such disgraceful situations. I also ask myself how much longer we have to tolerate that. How much longer will this last? We all understand that this is not just an accident. This is either done by a pre-instructed referee or he does it on the basis of some sentiments and feelings. There is no other name for that. It is impossible not to see this. At the same time, this should not discourage us. We lived as an occupied country for 28 years. We endured for 28 years, we made preparations, we gathered strength, and drove the enemy out of our lands. Over the years, we have faced many injustices and double standards. It did not discourage us at all. On the contrary, it inspired me as President even more, it made me even more determined. It gave me extra strength to carry out this historic mission. I am sure that this injustice will give you additional strength. You will go into the next games with greater determination and resolve, and you will glorify the name of "Qarabag" and the Azerbaijani football community," said Azerbaijani President.
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