Rundu-Based Julinho Athletic FC Earns FIFA Recognition with Award-Winning Club Development Project
Rundu-based Julinho Athletic FC has put Namibian football on the global stage after being named one of only two winning clubs in the final strategic project of the FIFA Essential Courses in Club Management – African Edition.
According to a statement released on 15 June 2026, the club’s project, titled “Building a Sustainable Football Development Model in Namibia,” received international recognition from FIFA for its strong strategic vision, practicality, implementation, and positive impact on club management. Eswatini’s Ubombo Sugar FC was the only other club across Africa to receive the distinction.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for both Julinho Athletic FC and Namibian football, highlighting the growing ambition and professionalism of clubs within the country.
The award-winning project outlines a long-term strategy aimed at creating a sustainable football ecosystem in Namibia. It focuses on strengthening youth development structures and establishing clear pathways for players, improving governance and infrastructure, promoting women’s football, futsal and coach education, and ensuring commercial sustainability while making a positive impact on local communities.
As part of the recognition, representatives of Julinho Athletic FC have been invited to Miami to attend the graduation session of the FIFA Diploma in Club Management and the Players Executive Programme. The event will take place during the FIFA World Cup period and will provide the club with an opportunity to engage with leading football administrators and experts from around the world.
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The club’s strategic vision has been driven by chairman Miguel Hamutenya, Group CEO Dr. Aníbal Do Rego and visionary Norton Luis.
Speaking on the achievement, Norton Luis described the recognition as a proud moment for the club and the country.
“This is a proud moment for Julinho Athletic FC, for Rundu, and for Namibian football. To be named among only two winning projects across the FIFA Essential Courses in Club Management African edition shows that Namibian football has ideas, vision and leadership that can stand on an international platform,” he said.
Nicknamed “The Lions,” Julinho Athletic FC now hopes to build on this success by developing young talent, expanding opportunities within the game, competing in future CAF competitions and contributing to Namibia’s long-term dream of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup.
