Summer 2026–2027: The Academies World Cup
The International Federation of Football Academies (IFAF) is gearing up to launch the first-ever edition of the Academies World Cup, with leading football academies from eight countries participating in what is set to become the most ambitious and high-profile event in the global academy sector. Among the international academies that have expressed preliminary interest are Barcelona Academy, Roma Academy, Manchester United Academy, and São Paulo Academy, alongside additional renowned academies expected to join from Africa, Asia, the Gulf region, and Saudi Arabia.
Tournament Details and Vision
Date & Venue
The championship will take place in Geneva, Switzerland, during the Summer of 2026–2027, bringing together elite football academies in a world-class competitive environment designed to develop young players’ skills and expose them to high-level international play.
Main Objectives
The tournament aims to:
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Strengthen communication and exchange of expertise among football academies.
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Enhance youth players’ abilities through structured and professional competition.
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Open new horizons for young athletes through exposure to diverse playing styles and international experiences.
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Reinforce the role of football academies as a key pillar in the global development of the sport.
Key Features of the Championship
🔹 A Global Competitive Platform
The event provides academies with the opportunity to compete in a professional, high-performance atmosphere, elevating the level of young players.
🔹 International Networking Opportunities
Bringing together academies from around the world fosters meaningful relationships, knowledge exchange, and long-term cooperation.
🔹 A Gateway for Talent Discovery
The event serves as a major showcase for talented youth players, offering exposure to scouts, major clubs, and international development pathways.
Statement from the President of IFAF
Captain Ishaq Bin Siraj, President of the International Federation of Football Academies, expressed strong optimism about the success of this inaugural global event, stating:
“Launching the first international edition of the Academies World Cup is a historic milestone for IFAF. Through this tournament, we aim to provide a unique experience that elevates the level of young players and helps participating academies enhance their training methodologies and expand their sporting vision.”
He added:
“We hope this championship will serve as a true starting point for young players on their journey toward professional careers. We look forward to hosting additional international editions in the future, reinforcing IFAF’s position as a key contributor to the global development of football academies.”
Conclusion
The upcoming IFAF Academies World Cup in Geneva is poised to become an exceptional international sporting event that strengthens opportunities for young players and supports academies in their mission to develop the next generation of football stars.
