After the Uzbek national football team’s qualification for the World Cup, a wave of national pride swept through the country. In recognition of their achievement, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev awarded the team members and coaches the title of “Pride of Uzbekistan” and presented them with modern, eco-friendly BYD electric cars. This honor celebrated the dedication and hard work of the players, who had given their all on the field for the country’s glory.
President Mirziyoyev praised the team’s commitment, willpower, and passion, acknowledging them as national heroes and symbols of pride. However, the story did not end with the official ceremony. One of the team’s defenders, Islam Tokhtakhodjaev, demonstrated extraordinary generosity when he chose to give his car to teammate Bobir Abdikholikov, a striker on the national team.
The gesture carried a deeper meaning. A touching video showed Abdikholikov, with a smile on his face, receiving the gift while interacting with a fan in a wheelchair. This emotional moment, captured in pictures, underscored that football is more than just a sport—it is a medium that connects people, fostering love, sincerity, and humanity.
The BYD electric cars, which bear the inscription “President’s gift” along with Uzbekistan’s national emblem, represent more than material possessions. They symbolize the recognition and respect of the nation, as well as the special attention given by the country’s leadership. The gesture reflects the growing influence of Uzbek football, not just on the pitch but also within the larger society. It highlights how the sport serves as a unifying force, inspiring people and fostering a sense of belonging.
In a further demonstration of solidarity, coach Srechko Katanets also gave his own BYD car to the team’s translator, Davron Akhmedov. These acts of kindness and humility reveal the strong bond between the national team and the people of Uzbekistan, reinforcing the power of football to unite hearts and inspire hope across the nation.
