Homeless World Cup to be Supported by FIFA
August 16, 2024
The Homeless World Cup Foundation (HWCF), which organizes the annual Homeless World Cup (HWC) will now be supported by FIFA, following a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU). The signing coincided with the 50 days to go landmark to the next HWC, which will take place in Seoul, Korea from September 21-28.
The HWC, the inspiration behind Netflix's "The Beautiful Game" released earlier this year, is an international street football tournament that challenges how people think about homelessness. “The purpose of the HWC is to use football as a way of ending homelessness and 1.2 million people have benefitted 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 HWC and FIFA is natural,” said HWC President, Mel Young.
According to HWCF statistics, 100 million people worldwide are homeless and an additional one billion lack adequate housing. This not only worsens social exclusion but also exacerbates economic hardship. HWC harnesses the unifying power of football and combats the isolation that comes with homelessness, uniting homeless people from around the world. The week-long competition offers participants an opportunity to represent their country and become part of a global community of players who have faced homelessness and social exclusion. For those attending or watching the tournament, being among the participants often changes their perceptions and attitudes on those experiencing homelessness.
HWC currently has 70 Member Countries worldwide. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was the latest to join the HWC network becoming the 15th country representing the African continent. The DRC will be represented by NGO Fobeworld which serves youth aged 0-18 – many of whom are displaced due to the ongoing conflict in the country.
Founded in 2016, Fobeworld uses football to teach youth life skills and information on how to better support their physical and mental health. Its programs tackle issues facing young people in the country, which includes addressing abuse prevention, HIV prevention, health awareness, conflict resolution and confidence building.
“Joining the HWC network is a major step forward for our mission,” said Henri-Dunant Chikuru, CEO of Fobeworld. “It will enhance our ability to use football to empower youth, tackle critical issues and drive positive change in conflict-affected communities in DRC.”
Over 500 players from 49 countries will participate in the 19th edition of the Seoul 2024 HWC. 20 teams in the women's tournament and 44 in the men's. As part of the recent MoU, FIFA will broadcast the tournament on its streaming platform, FIFA+, and provide materials and equipment, including medals and trophies. In addition, FIFA and HWCF will also explore co-branding opportunities, including on the pitch side at the venues and on social media platforms.
“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," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. 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."
Photos: Homeless World Cup and Fobeworld