Kavajë, Albania – A century of passion, pride, and football history was celebrated as the city of Kavajë hosted the festive ceremony “100 Years of Besa”, marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the legendary football club KF Besa. The event honored one of the oldest and most respected names in Albanian football, a club that has been deeply intertwined with the identity and spirit of the city for generations.
The ceremony brought together prominent figures from the world of sports and politics, including the President of the Albanian Football Federation (FSHF), Armand Duka, President of the Republic of Albania, Bajram Begaj, Mayor of Kavajë, Fisnik Qosja, former players, sports personalities, and hundreds of citizens who came to celebrate this historical milestone.
Honoring a Century of Football Heritage
During the celebration, a documentary dedicated to the rich history of the club was presented, along with honorary certificates recognizing the contributions of former players and key supporters throughout the decades. Music added to the emotional atmosphere, with Ilir Sallaku performing a special song written for the club’s centenary.
One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was the presentation of the new Kavajë Stadium project, which will be built through close cooperation between the Albanian Football Federation and Kavajë Municipality.
The project envisions a modern UEFA Category 4 stadium with a capacity of 8,000 seats, equipped with up-to-date facilities for both players and fans. The new venue will serve as a home not only for Besa’s matches but also as a hub for local football development and community events.
FSHF President Armand Duka’s Address
In his commemorative speech, FSHF President Armand Duka expressed his pride in the century-long journey of KF Besa and highlighted the club’s significant contribution to Albanian football.
“Besa is more than just a football club; it’s a symbol of faith, community, and identity for Kavajë. I want to thank everyone who has contributed over the past 100 years—players, coaches, supporters, and leaders—who have kept this spirit alive,” Duka said.
He also emphasized the importance of investing in football infrastructure, particularly for the youth academies, ensuring better training environments for the new generation of players.
“Although the old stadium was destroyed by the 2019 earthquake, today we are proud to announce that the project for a new stadium has been finalized and approved. This is a promise to the people of Kavajë that football will continue to thrive here,” Duka added.
The FSHF President also paid tribute to the great names who shaped Besa’s history, from early legends like Irfan Berati, Qemal Vogli, and Alush Merhori, to more recent stars such as Altin Rraklli, Andi Lila, and Sokol Cikalleshi.
Presidential Recognition of Besa’s Spirit
In his speech, President Bajram Begaj praised Besa as a vital part of Kavajë’s identity and Albania’s football culture.
“Besa is not just a jersey or a match result—it’s a way of life, a shared spirit that connects generations. Today we honor all those who built this history: coaches, players, and fans who have carried the club’s name with pride,” Begaj said.
The President’s heartfelt words highlighted how deeply football is rooted in the Albanian spirit, especially in cities like Kavajë where the sport has shaped community values for decades.
Mayor Qosja: “Besa is Part of Kavajë’s DNA”
Fisnik Qosja, the Mayor of Kavajë, emphasized that Besa’s 100-year journey is inseparable from the identity of the city and its people.
“A century ago, a group of young men from Kavajë lit a flame that has never gone out. Besa became more than a football club—it became a promise, a reflection of our character, our courage, and our love for this city,” Qosja declared.
He added that the new stadium and continued cooperation with the FSHF will ensure that the next century of Besa begins with optimism, better facilities, and renewed passion.
A Night of Legends and Emotions
The event also featured remarks from former football icons Muharrem Kariqi, Dash Bajaziti, and Altin Rraklli, who shared personal memories from their careers and spoke of their emotional connection with the club.
As the night drew to a close, organizers unveiled the “11 Players of the Century”, a symbolic lineup celebrating the greatest talents in Besa’s history. The crowd erupted in applause, reflecting the deep respect and affection that Kavajë continues to hold for its beloved team.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Besa
The centenary celebration was not only a tribute to the past but also a message for the future. With the new stadium project underway and growing support for youth academies, Besa Kavajë is entering a new era—one defined by renewal, ambition, and the same unwavering community spirit that has guided it for the past century.
Besa’s story is more than football—it’s about faith, unity, and resilience. As Kavajë looks forward to the next hundred years, the name Besa continues to represent the heart and soul of the city.