Abu Dhabi: Amateur footballers from Abu Dhabi are expected to register in their droves for the newly announced Mubadala Community Football League, organisers said on Wednesday.
Set to take place from October until April 2017, the event is an initiative of Mubadala that has been expanded under its recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and will be wholly operated by Zayed Sports City.
The programme will feature 40 teams and is set to resemble professional football leagues whereby the season is split into two terms, with each team competing against their own group once each term.
After the first year, teams will be ranked into four divisions, and they will be able to move across these upon completion of the year depending on their rankings.
“We are proud that Mubadala has chosen Zayed Sports City as the venue and operator for the Mubadala Community Football League,” Barry Bremner, General Manager, Zayed Sports City, said. “Working together with individuals and organisations in the community, ZSC has been able to demonstrate the importance of a healthy lifestyle and engage more people in its benefits. This event will showcase sport on the next level, providing high-quality facilities and a professionally organised format that will be appreciated by the players and fans.
“Football, with its popularity, is a great way to do this, and the longevity of this project will push people to work hard all season and every season.”
Saoud Karmastaji, Assistant Manager, Group Communications, Mubadala, added: “Through our programmes and partnerships, our aim is to not only empower UAE nationals to realise opportunities in various business sectors which serve Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification, but also to support the development of a well-rounded generation. One of our objectives is to encourage members of the community to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle, so working with our partners at Zayed Sports City to expand the Mubadala Community Football League to last seven months allows us to be even more successful in fulfilling this.”
All matches will take place on the Zayed Sports City pitches and the teams will also have the opportunity to play in the Zayed Sports City Stadium.
Referees will be certified by the UAE Football Association and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council has sanctioned the competition.
To encourage players to maintain their fitness and skills, the league offers valuable prizes for winners and high-performing players.
To register, visit Weyana.ae/mcflRegistration.
