Jordan's Historic World Cup Qualification Seen As National Triumph With Broad Economic, Cultural Impact

(MENAFN- Jordan News Agency)

Amman, July 14 (Petra) – Jordanians have hailed the national football team's historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a landmark achievement, extending far beyond the pitch to promise positive ripple effects across the country's economic, tourism, and cultural sectors.
The kingdom's debut at one of the world's most prestigious sporting events is expected to thrust Jordan into the global spotlight, enhancing its visibility on the international stage and unlocking new opportunities for national advancement.
Experts and commentators told the Jordan News Agency (Petra) that Jordan's participation in the World Cup marks a first-rate sporting triumph that places the country's football scene under the global media lens. They emphasized that the achievement not only boosts Jordan's sporting profile but also projects its cultural and touristic appeal, with anticipated benefits to the national economy.
International football lecturer and Jordanian football expert Ziyad Akouya stressed that the qualification represents a turning point in the history of Jordanian football. "This is not just a sports achievement it puts Jordan on the global football map," he said, noting that it opens doors for Jordanian players to secure contracts with major clubs, elevating their professional caliber and enriching the national game. He also pointed to the economic, tourism, and cultural dividends expected to follow.
Echoing this sentiment, Iyad Mallah, Dean of Student Affairs at Petra University and a youth activist, said that mere participation in the World Cup is a major win. "It's not only about sports. The world will begin to ask, What is Jordan? What is the story of this country that qualified for the World Cup?" he said, adding that global curiosity will naturally lead to interest in Jordan's rich history and heritage.
Mallah predicted that Jordan would witness a surge in foreign tourism in the coming period, a development likely to invigorate the national economy.
Meanwhile, longtime fan and national team follower Maher Mousa noted that the historic qualification had already begun attracting international attention. "This milestone has piqued global interest in Jordan not just among sports fans but more broadly," he said. "People are searching to learn more about the team and the country's culture and identity."
He added, "The Jordanian flag will fly at the world's biggest football tournament, accompanied by the royal anthem. Our players will be spotlighted by international media this, in itself, is a priceless achievement."
The mood across Jordan remains jubilant, with growing calls from both the public and official circles to fully capitalize on the historic qualification. Observers emphasize the importance of leveraging this moment strategically to promote Jordan's image showcasing its heritage, tourism potential, and authentic narrative to the world.

MENAFN14072025000117011021ID1109798825