MUSCAT: The Oman Football Association (OFA) on Sunday unveiled a new fan-engagement strategy for the 2026-27 Jindal League season, sponsored by Jindal Steel, with RO 132,500 allocated in awards and incentives to boost attendance, strengthen ties between clubs and their supporters and enhance the overall matchday experience.
The strategy was announced during a press conference held at the Hormuz Grand Muscat, attended by OFA officials, Sami bin Salim al Sahib Vice-President Corporate Strategy at Jindal Steel, and media representatives.
Under the theme “Full stands, engaged clubs, connected communities,” the initiative is built around the principle that supporters are not merely numbers in the stands, but an integral part of the competition, club identity and the development of the football product.
The OFA, in partnership with Jindal Steel, has allocated RO 100,000 for fan excellence awards, to be distributed in two phases at the end of the first round and at the conclusion of the season.
Clubs will be assessed according to measurable criteria covering attendance and consistency, positive support and interaction, promotion of club identity, media and fan content, community initiatives and sportsmanship. A specialised committee will oversee the evaluation process using unified criteria to ensure fairness and equal opportunities.
Mohammed bin Sulaiman al Yahmadi, Secretary-General of the OFA, said the initiative represents a new approach to fan engagement that goes beyond increasing attendance and focuses on building a sustainable supporter culture.
“We aim through this strategy to move from the concept of attendance to belonging, where the supporter is not merely a spectator but a partner in creating the atmosphere of the competition, highlighting the identity of the club and strengthening its presence in the community,” he said.
A further RO 32,500 has been allocated for incentive awards during league rounds, including categories such as Best Supporters’ Group and Player of the Round, bringing the total value of awards and incentives under the initiative to RO 132,500.
Sami al Sahib said Jindal Steel’s support reflects the company’s commitment to sustainable initiatives that strengthen community engagement and encourage greater participation by youth and families in football.
The strategy is based on six main pillars: bringing supporters back to stadiums and improving the fan experience; the Best Supporters’ Group competition; media and content; identity and culture; community involvement and volunteering; and impact measurement.
It also seeks to encourage supporters to showcase the identity of their clubs and wilayats through Omani culture, arts and heritage, while creating greater opportunities for young people in media, design, organisation, marketing and volunteering.
The season-ending awards will also recognise outstanding performers, including Best Player, Promising Player, Goalkeeper, Top Scorer, Coach, Administrator, Referee and Assistant Referee, along with awards covering media, organisation and match coordination.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
