FIFA Joins Forces with Homeless World Cup to Tackle Homelessness
In a major boost to global social causes, FIFA has inked a deal with the Homeless World Cup Foundation (HWCF). This powerful partnership will ramp up support and visibility for the annual Homeless World Cup — a tournament that uses football to inspire homeless people worldwide.
FIFA’s Role: Medals, Trophies & Live Broadcasts
Under the new memorandum of understanding, FIFA will supply vital materials like medals and trophies for the upcoming tournaments. Fans can also catch the action live on FIFA+, the organisation’s official streaming platform. The announcement comes just 50 days ahead of the next Homeless World Cup, set to kick off in Seoul, South Korea, from 21-28 September 2024. It’s the first time the event will be hosted in Asia.
Top Brass Speak Out
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: “I am delighted that FIFA will be supporting this wonderful tournament and partnering with the Homeless World Cup Foundation. The Homeless World Cup shows how football brings people together to challenge social stigma and improve lives. From Seoul onwards, FIFA will help ensure this tournament makes a lasting impact supporting homeless people globally.”
HWCF President Mel Young added: “We’re thrilled to partner with FIFA to deliver Seoul 2024. Over 500 players from 49 countries will compete in this 19th edition. Since 2003, 1.2 million people have benefited from this initiative. Football is a powerful force for good — FIFA’s support cements this vision and will have a huge long-term impact.”
Event Details: What to Expect in Seoul
- The 2024 Homeless World Cup will feature 20 women’s teams and 44 men’s teams.
- Matches will be 4-a-side with rolling substitutions, split into two seven-minute halves.
- The event will be held at Hanyang University in Seoul.
- Homelessness eligibility is defined based on each country’s national context, using legal definitions or local NGO standards.
Pre-Tournament Buzz: Spurs and Bayern Show Support
In a special pre-tournament event, Tottenham Hotspur stars Guglielmo Vicario and Destiny Udogie met the Korean Homeless World Cup squad, took part in training, and held a Q&A to learn about the tournament’s unique rules and impact.
Meanwhile, FC Bayern Munich hosted a rooftop training session in Seoul for homeless players, HWCF reps, and the local organising committee. Club legends and executives like Noussair Mazraoui, Raimond Aumann, Professor Dr. Dieter Mayer, and Walter Mennekes emphasised Bayern’s commitment to social responsibility. Dr. Mayer said: “Our club has always looked out for the less fortunate. Football unites and builds community — and we want to offer everyone a home.”
Football With a Cause
This FIFA-HWCF alliance marks a huge step in using football as a force to inspire change and give hope to homeless individuals across the globe. As the countdown to Seoul 2024 continues, the beautiful game proves it can deliver more than glory — it can deliver lives transformed.
