uknip247 
In a significant move to bolster support for global social initiatives, FIFA has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Homeless World Cup Foundation (HWCF). This agreement aims to enhance the delivery and reach of the annual Homeless World Cup, which is designed to support and inspire homeless individuals worldwide through the power of football.
As part of the MoU, FIFA will provide crucial materials and equipment, including medals and trophies, for the upcoming tournaments. Additionally, FIFA and HWCF have agreed to jointly broadcast the event on FIFA+, FIFA’s streaming platform. The announcement comes exactly 50 days before the next Homeless World Cup, scheduled to take place in Seoul, Korea Republic from 21 to 28 September 2024. This will be the first time the competition is held in Asia.
Statements from Key Figures
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “I am delighted that FIFA will be supporting this wonderful tournament and to be partnering with the Homeless World Cup Foundation. The Homeless World Cup is a perfect example of how football can bring people together to challenge existing social perceptions and improve people’s lives. FIFA is excited to contribute, because we share the view of the Homeless World Cup Foundation that football is a force for good, and starting from the upcoming edition in Seoul, FIFA will contribute in ensuring that this tournament continues to make a real impact that supports homeless people all across the world.
HWCF President Mel Young also commented on the partnership: “We are delighted to sign a partnership agreement today with FIFA which will greatly enhance the delivery of the Seoul 2024 Homeless World Cup. The tournament, which starts on 21 September 2024, will see over 500 players from 49 countries across the globe taking part in the 19th edition of the Homeless World Cup at Hanyang University.
The purpose of the Homeless World Cup is to use football as a way of ending homelessness and 1.2 million people have benefited from the initiative since it was born in 2003. Sport has real power, and we have proved that it can be a force for good. FIFA is committed to supporting those in need so a partnership between the Homeless World Cup and FIFA is natural. Longer term the impact will be very significant.”
Event Details and Impact
The Homeless World Cup has been a pivotal event since its inception in Graz, Austria, in 2003, providing a platform for individuals seeking a better future and challenging societal perceptions of homelessness. The 2024 finals will feature 20 teams in the women’s tournament and 44 in the men’s tournament and will be held at Hanyang University in Seoul. The event format includes four-a-side matches with rolling substitutions, consisting of two halves of seven minutes each.
In terms of eligibility, homelessness is defined according to the national context of each participating country. Where there is no legal definition, working definitions by local housing NGOs or academics are used.
Pre-Tournament Activities
In anticipation of the event, Tottenham Hotspur first-team and Italian national players Guglielmo Vicario and Destiny Udogie joined the Korean Men’s Seoul 2024 Homeless World Squad for a special meet and greet. They observed the squad’s training and participated in a Q&A session, learning about the unique rules of the Homeless World Cup and the tournament’s profound impact.
Additionally, FC Bayern Munich hosted a rooftop event in Seoul, where Korean Homeless World Cup players, the Seoul 2024 Local Organising Committee, and HWCF representatives participated in a special training session led by Bayern’s coaching team. Bayern’s player Noussair Mazraoui, German legend Raimond Aumann, and club vice presidents Professor Dr. Dieter Mayer and Walter Mennekes spoke about the importance of the Homeless World Cup and FC Bayern Munich’s commitment to social responsibility.
Dr. Mayer emphasized the club’s alignment with HWCF’s vision: “We’re very proud that we as FC Bayern Munich get to meet the Homeless World Cup Foundation and the team of South Korea here. For decades, our club has been characterised by the fact that it always looks out for people who are less fortunate. Football unites and creates a feeling of community – and our club wants to offer everyone a home.”
The partnership between FIFA and the Homeless World Cup Foundation marks a significant step towards using football as a means to inspire change and provide hope to homeless individuals around the world.
