Doha became a global focal point for football leadership this week as the FIFA Club Management Summit brought together club executives, innovators, and decision-makers from every continent. Led by Ornella Désirée Bellia, the Summit created a space for shared learning and dialogue—welcoming figures such as Arsène Wenger, Jill Ellis, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss the future of the game.
FIFA 1904 was represented at the Summit by Julie Anne Quay, founder of VFILES and co-owner of Barnsley FC, as the brand was introduced to an international audience of football leaders. With the Arab Cup and the International Cup taking place simultaneously, Doha became the epicenter of the global football community—making it a uniquely powerful moment to showcase FIFA 1904 on an international stage.
That conversation extended beyond the Summit through the launch of SLANE House, a new platform created in partnership with the Doha Design District in Msheireb Downtown. Designed to foster dialogue between sport and the region’s creative community, SLANE House highlighted the growing intersection of football and fashion. Speaking to Doha News, former FC Barcelona defender Eric Abidal emphasized the importance of blending the two worlds, while former international Adlene Guedioura reflected on football’s power to transcend the pitch and influence culture, including fashion. FIFA 1904 was among the featured brands—marking Doha as its first launch location outside of New York.
For Julie Anne, the experience reinforced what makes Qatar’s football culture so distinctive.
“The thing that makes Doha so special is the national passion for football in Qatar. Football is more than a game here—it is life, it is a religion. To be able to bring FIFA 1904 here and share it with those who have such respect and love for the game was such an honor.”
With the global football world gathered in Doha, the week offered valuable opportunities to share FIFA 1904’s products, receive direct feedback, and engage in meaningful conversations with players and executives about fashion’s role in football.
“Doha is the most magical place,” Julie Anne added. “From the light and the desert to the people—so kind, thoughtful, and deeply knowledgeable about both fashion and football—I cannot wait to come back.”
FIFA 1904’s presence in Doha reflects the brand’s commitment to operating at the intersection of football, fashion, and culture—engaging directly with the leaders and communities shaping the game’s future.
