Football fever can benefit the local game in Hong Kong
An eventful few months in the local football scene will be capped by the World Football Summit, featuring legends of the game and showcasing the role of technology in ensuring the 'world game' remains on top of an increasingly competitive sporting entertainment sphere.
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The city is to host the summit for consecutive years 2025-26-27, beginning in September at AsiaWorld-Expo.
This year's event is expected to feature not only former champions but also influential figures from the tech industry including OpenAI CEO and co-founder Sam Altman.
Confirmed speakers are said to include Brazilian icon Ronaldo Nazario, Spanish midfield maestro Andres Iniesta and former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
Others attending include former Chelsea captain John Terry, former Italian star and manager Fabio Capello and former Italian star Francesco Totti. Brazilian Marta Vieira da Silva, six-time Fifa world player of the year and regarded as the greatest female player of all time, and American two-time Olympic gold medallist Mia Hamm will also visit for the summit.
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The event will position Hong Kong as a premier destination for football enthusiasts. The announcement comes as the city also seeks to build on its Sevens rugby tournament fame and establish itself as a hub for major sporting events to boost its economy.
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