Dubai: The inaugural Emirates Airline Dubai Football 7s — just days after its official launch, is already proving a huge hit among amateur footballers across the region with almost 1,800 players already signed up.
Managers of more than 150 teams were on the ball, registering less than 48 hours after English Premier League legend Ian Rush appeared in Dubai to kick-start the event. The players will now be getting ready to rub shoulders with Rush and a host of other greats of the game who will be coming to the UAE for the event at the Sevens, Emirates' dedicated sporting facility, from March 11 to 13.
Rush, the former Liverpool and Juventus striker, said in a press release yesterday: "This phenomenal response proves how popular football is here. It shows that this tournament is going to be a huge focal point for the football community who for the first time will be brought together to play in one place.
"The hype is building with more players signing up for the legends event every day. Fans and players are going to be treated to a fantastic festival of football. I can't wait to get my boots on with my old Liverpool teammates and face up to old foes like Arsenal and Manchester United again."
Rangers, Celtic and Chelsea will also feature in the six-team legends tournament, while AC Milan, Arsenal and Olympiacos will be among eight professional teams competing in the festive weekend of football.
Tournament Director Jim Fitzsimons is delighted with the response. He said in a press release: "The interest in participating in the first ever Emirates Airline Dubai Football 7s has been tremendous.
"This really will be a unique tournament in that it offers everyday, amateur footballers the opportunity of playing on the same pitches as some of the legends they have looked up to for many years. Places in the various sections of the amateur tournament are filling fast and so those wanting to take part are encouraged to get their entries in as soon as possible."
Based on the model of the hugely popular Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens, the amateur tournament will be divided into 12 different sections, from under-nine level right through to veterans.
To enter a team or to buy tickets to watch the Emirates Airline Dubai Football 7s, log on to www.dubaifootball7s.com.
