In the lead up to the Danone Nations Cup World Final, Team England and Danone Nations Cup Ambassadors visited Wembley for the official Tournament Draw

Professional footballer Tom Ince and his father, Blackpool Manager Paul Ince, joined the team representing England at Wembley Stadium to officially announce the tournament fixture for the Danone Nations Cup World Final. 

The Tournament Draw, which was hosted by TV sports presenter, Abi Griffiths was attended by Ambassadors John Scales, Tom and Paul Ince; Minister for Civil Society Nick Hurd; Nicolas Riom and Adam Grant Managing Directors for Danone and saw the national teams line-up officially announced at Wembley Stadium. England will be competing against Russia, Belarus and Algeria in the first tournament stages of the competition which will start in Guildford on 4th September. 

Last year’s winners were South Korea and Team England will be hoping to continue on England’s sporting success to raise the Danone Nations Cup Trophy next month. This year’s World Final will host over 400 young football stars from 32 countries at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, 7th September. 

Tom Ince, England Ambassador for the Danone Nations Cup, said: “It was great fun to be at Wembley for the Tournament Draw and I’m looking forward to watching England’s first games against Russia, Belarus and Algeria and see how they get on in the World Final. I’m so proud to be involved with the Danone Nations Cup which gives so many children the chance to fulfil their dreams.” 

Ian Forgie, Team Coach and teacher at Cardinal Heenan, said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to be at Wembley stadium for the Tournament Draw yesterday and the reality has kicked in for the team as they realise they will be playing at the World Final in a few weeks – an experience they will never forget. The tournament is an amazing platform for young people to unite through the power of sport and play football against other children from different cultures and nationalities.”

Nicolas Riom, Managing Director of Danone UK & Ireland said: “Danone UK is very proud to host the Danone Nations Cup World Final this year and to bring the tournament to London. It is a perfect opportunity to keep the spirit of the London 2012 Olympics alive and inspire millions more children to get active. The tournament is part of our DNA and works well together with our schools ‘Eat Like a Champ’ campaign, which teaches children about good nutrition and physical activity.”

The Danone Nations Cup decided to hold this year’s World Final in London as part of their dedication to ensuring a sustainable activity and sports legacy from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and are a proud partner of the Inspired by 2012 mark.  It is the first time the final has taken place in the UK, making it an important moment for the England team.

Minister for Civil Society Nick Hurd said, "I hugely enjoyed meeting Team England at the draw for the Danone Nations Cup yesterday. It is great that they are going to be part of our Olympic legacy brand, Inspired by 2012"

The Danone Nations Cup is the world’s largest international football tournament for 10-12 year olds and has been running since 2000. From England to Indonesia, China to Mexico, up to 32 countries participate each year in making the dreams of some 2.5 million boys and girls come true through a unique and unforgettable experience.

In its 14 year history, this is the first time the event has come to the UK. The tournament showcases football’s future stars who will have the chance to play in a series of competitive matches in front of footballing icons including Zinedine Zidane, Tom and Paul Ince. 

At the World Final guests can expect to enjoy a special performance by Diversity and experience a host of entertainment ranging from face painting, freestyler football demonstrations and interactive games for the whole family.

Tickets to the World Final are only £5 and can be purchased here.