Cardiff will play host to the 17th Homeless World Cup from July 27th – August 3rd with the tournament being held in the heart of the Welsh Capital in Bute Park.
More than 500 players from over 50 countries will travel to Cardiff to take part in the competition, which is touted to be one of the best so far.
64 teams from around the world will make their way to Wales to take part in two competitions. The men’s and mixed competition will welcome 48 teams competing for six different trophies, while the women’s competition will see 16 teams playing for two trophies.
Many of the players have overcome problems with substance abuse and homelessness and credit their recovery in part to involvement with the Homeless World Cup. In fact 94% of players in the tournament say that involvement has positively impacted their lives, with 77% saying their lives have changed significantly due to their involvement in football.
The Cardiff 2019 Homeless World Cup bid was led by Welsh actor and activist Michael Sheen. The event will be delivered by the Homeless World Cup Foundation in coordination with Cardiff City Council, Cardiff University, Cardiff City FC Foundation, FA Wales, Pobl Group, Office of Michael Sheen, Working Word , Green Man Festival, PYST and Street Football Wales.
The Living Room Cardiff will be there on the day with a full report to follow.