International Blind Football Tournament
Russia will host the inaugural International Blind Football Tournament from December 18-20, 2024, gathering professional teams from the BRICS nations and partner countries. This socially significant sporting event has already drawn significant attention, as representatives from eight countries have confirmed their participation.
A Joint Initiative for Inclusive Development
The Russian Blind Football Federation and the BRICS Civil Council jointly initiated the International Blind Football tournament. Firstly, this collaboration stems from the Kazan Declaration of the XVI BRICS Summit. Wherein the partnership showcases the organization’s dedication to strengthening cooperation. Specifically, it focuses on three key areas: Politics and Security, Economics and Finance, and Cultural and People-to-People Ties. Additionally, this visually impaired soccer event exemplifies the commitment to inclusive sporting initiatives within the BRICS framework.
A Brief History of Blind Football
The origins of blind football can be traced back to the inaugural championship conducted in Brazil in 1980, which paved the way for the first world championship in 1998. Today, approximately 39 million individuals worldwide are blind, while approximately 246 million experience visual impairments of variable severity. In Russia alone, 20.7 million individuals experience a variety of visual impairments.
Why This Tournament Matters
Since the International Blind Sports Association (IBSA) suspended the Russian blind football team from participating in the Blind Football European Championship in March 2022, the launch of an International Blind Football Tournament in Russia presents a unique opportunity for our athletes to compete against international teams at a high level.
A Prestigious Gathering of Representatives
The tournament will attract a prestigious gathering of representatives from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, diplomatic missions, the BRICS Expert Council – Russia, as well as officials from sports agencies and the Russian Paralympic Committee.
Organizers and Sponsors
The BRICS Expert Council – Russia, based at HSE University, organizes the event. It prioritizes expert analysis and research on critical issues in political, socio-economic, and humanitarian cooperation within the BRICS framework. Furthermore, the Council coordinates Russia’s contributions to the Expert and Civil Track of BRICS. Notably, the International Blind Football tournament receives support from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Additionally, PhosAgro Group, a global leader in phosphate-based fertilizers, serves as the title sponsor. VTB Bank (PJSC) also contributes to supporting this inclusive sports competition.
A Celebration of Sportsmanship and Inclusivity
Get ready to experience the excitement of the inaugural International Blind Football Tournament in Moscow, a celebration of sportsmanship, inclusivity, and international cooperation! This historic event promises to be a memorable experience, showcasing the talents of blind football athletes from around the world.
The International Blind Football Tournament is a testament to the power of sports in promoting inclusivity and cooperation. As Russia takes the lead in hosting this historic event, we can expect a thrilling display of skill, teamwork, and determination from the participating teams. Join them in Moscow on December 18-20, 2024, to experience the excitement of blind football and be a part of this groundbreaking moment in sports history!
The competition will also be supported by VTB Bank (PJSC) .
Venue: Moscow, 3 Yuri Nikulin Street, Dynamo Sports Academy
Media accreditation: [email protected] (December 16 until 7:00 pm).
Further details about the event will be posted on the official website of the tournament and the Generation BRICS Telegram channel.