The 2024 Homeless World Cup kicked off in Seoul, South Korea, marking the first time the global event is being held in Asia. The tournament, which began on Saturday at Hanyang University, brings together 52 teams from 38 countries, united by the common goal of using football to empower individuals experiencing homelessness.
First held in 2003, the Homeless World Cup aims to transform lives through the sport, while simultaneously challenging societal stereotypes surrounding homelessness. The tournament provides an opportunity for participants to build confidence, foster a sense of community, and work toward a brighter future.
This year’s event is particularly significant, as it follows the announcement of a partnership between the Homeless World Cup Foundation and FIFA. Signed in August, the collaboration underscores FIFA’s commitment to social responsibility, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighting the power of football as a tool for positive change. “FIFA is excited to contribute, because we share the view of the Homeless World Cup Foundation that football is a force for good,” Infantino said on Instagram.
Under the new agreement, FIFA is providing medals, trophies, and media support, streaming the matches live on its platform, FIFA+. The partnership is expected to elevate the visibility of the tournament and the cause it supports.
One of the event’s primary goals is to raise awareness about homelessness, particularly in the host city of Seoul. Ahn Byung-hun, executive director of The Big Issue Korea, one of the local organizers, emphasized the importance of increasing public understanding of housing rights. “We hope this tournament will broaden the scope of policies related to homelessness in South Korea and address the lack of mandatory support measures,” Ahn told AFP.
The South Korean team competing in the tournament reflects the diversity of those facing homelessness in the country. The squad includes eight players, among them a person with disabilities, an asylum seeker, and a teenager living in a shelter.
The 2024 Homeless World Cup is open to the public and runs through September 28, offering a chance for people to witness the power of football in fostering hope and resilience.
