Introduction: football as a source of cultural belonging and transformations in the Middle East and North Africa

Key Points

• To explore the role of football in shaping cultural belonging and transformations in the Middle East and North Africa, particularly in relation to religion.
• Initiated a project in 2021 focusing on football culture and religion in the Middle East.
• Launched a call for papers in 2024 to gather diverse perspectives on football's cultural impact.
• Highlighting football as a significant force in cultural belonging.
• Identifying connections between football, identity, and religious expressions in the region.