Dubai: Former Al Wasl coach Diego Maradona was unveiled as an Honorary Ambassador of Sports in Dubai on Sunday, signing a one-year agreement with Dubai Sports Council at the Burj Khalifa’s Armani Hotel.
It was confirmed that Argentina’s 1986 World Cup-winning legend would start work immediately, using his experience to develop the game of football in Dubai.
As part of his ambassadorial role, he will participate in conferences and highlight ideas on how to improve the Emirate’s sports scene at home and abroad.
Maradona was appointed as per the directives of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council (DSC).
The 51-year-old said: “Dubai Sports Council and I have discussed a few ideas regarding what should be done in the coming period in the field of sports to discover new talents in the coming generation of local athletes. This was the greatest incentive for me to accept this mission.
“Hosting successful global sporting events has put Dubai on the global sports map, and I trust that this will help to encourage more home-grown stars to come out and challenge the rest of the world.”
DSC Secretary General Ahmad Al Sharif said: “There is no doubt that Maradona is a successful example of what sports can do to a talented individual if he shows dedication, keeps developing his talent and represents his country with honour.
“With such an international position and great talent, he can do more than anyone else can do — he can reach the new generation of talented athletes and motivate them to shine and achieve greater success.”
Al Sharif added: “Maradona’s accomplishments have inspired the world. We trust that, through his work as a sports ambassador, he will contribute in inspiring the new generation of talented players to pursue the path of training and persevere to reach the highest social and athletic levels possible.”
