Celebrating Visionary Leadership: Timothy Fok Honoured with the AFC Diamond of Asia

Riyadh, 2025 – The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has awarded its highest individual distinction, the AFC Diamond of Asia, to Mr Timothy Fok Tsun Ting, Honorary President of the Hong Kong, China Football Association (HKFA), in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the development of football and sport across Asia.

A lifetime dedicated to sport and leadership

For over five decades, Timothy Fok has stood as one of Asia’s most respected sporting figures. Appointed as a Council Member of the HKFA in 1973, and later serving as its President from 1997 to 2023, he oversaw a period of transformation marked by professionalism, structural reform and youth development.

Under his guidance, the Phoenix Project, launched in 2011, laid the foundations for the creation of elite football academies and the establishment of the Hong Kong Premier League in 2014 — initiatives that continue to shape the sporting ecosystem of Hong Kong, China.

An architect of cooperation and progress

Mr Fok’s leadership has always extended beyond domestic boundaries. In the 1970s, he played a decisive role in fostering regional football collaboration, notably through the creation of the Guangdong–Hong Kong Cup. His efforts also contributed to facilitating the People’s Republic of China’s reintegration into the international football community.

A trusted figure within the Asian football family, he served on the AFC Executive Committee (2018–2019) and remains a member of the AFC Dream Asia Foundation Board of Trustees, reflecting his enduring commitment to the growth and inclusivity of the sport.

A legacy within the Olympic Movement

Beyond football, Timothy Fok’s influence spans the global sporting landscape. As an Honorary Member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and after more than 15 years of service within its ranks, he played an active role in various IOC Commissions and contributed to the success of major international events, including the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

In 2018, his long-standing dedication was recognised with the Olympic Order (Silver) — one of the highest honours bestowed by the IOC.

A lasting impact on Asian sport

Mr Fok’s recognition with the AFC Diamond of Asia highlights a career devoted to the advancement of sport as a force for unity, education, and opportunity. His vision, integrity and leadership continue to inspire future generations of athletes and administrators across the continent.