Jaber Al-Ahmad Youth Center.

KUWAIT CITY, Nov 5: The “Football for Humanity” tournament is set to kick off tomorrow, as organizers put the final touches on an opening ceremony that will blend the excitement of sport with captivating artistic performances. This edition marks a unique launch for one of Kuwait’s most prominent community events of the year, featuring matches between 34 teams comprising around 400 boys and girls aged 8 to 11, in an atmosphere that highlights the role of sport as a bridge for human solidarity and connection.

In its inaugural edition, the Football for Humanity initiative launches with a focus on supporting Palestinian children, harnessing the global reach of the world’s most popular sport to advance humanitarian diplomacy and deliver real impact. This first edition lays the foundation for an annual platform that will gradually expand to support children in other crisis-affected communities worldwide.

The initiative reinforces the role of sport as a tool for peace-building and social cohesion, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 10 on reducing inequalities and Goal 17 on fostering partnerships. By advancing the same humanitarian values promoted by the UN and FIFA, the initiative builds a foundation for future partnerships and deeper global engagement.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, President of the Kuwait Football Association and member of the initiative’s Board of Trustees, said: “The Football for Humanity initiative proves that sports go beyond the boundaries of the field — they serve as a bridge for peace, cooperation, and solidarity among nations. It helps nurture a healthy environment that instills in children the true values of sportsmanship, turning their love for football into a deeper message of humanity and peace.

I invite everyone to attend the matches on November 6 and 7 to witness how every pass on the field carries a message of unity and support shared among young players around the world. Regardless of differences in language, borders, or circumstances, sport — and football in particular — unites us and drives us forward with teamwork toward a better future. That is the highest purpose of sport.”

H.E. Lorenzo Morini, Ambassador of Italy to Kuwait, said: “We are delighted to see this initiative come to life after a year of dedicated work. What began as an idea has today become an international humanitarian platform led by the State of Kuwait under the patronage of His Excellency, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya. This is entirely in line with Kuwait’s long-standing and principled commitment to humanitarian action around the world. I also extend my sincere appreciation to Sheikha Intisar Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah, Chairperson of Al-Nowair Foundation and Chair of the Organizing Committee, for her leadership in bringing partners together and turning this vision into a tangible reality.”

Balsam Al-Ayoub, initiative advisor and member of the Board of Trustees, said: “This initiative builds on Kuwait’s long-standing humanitarian legacy and its continued cooperation with the international community. Today, we lay the foundation for a global movement for humanity, one that unites international, governmental, institutional, and community efforts through sport. Football’s universal power transcends borders and cultures, serving as a bridge between people and strengthening the values of solidarity and peace. We are proud to launch this global call from Kuwait, a nation known as a land of friendship, peace, and humanitarian leadership.”

The youth tournament will take place on November 6–7 at Jaber Al-Ahmad Youth Center, with the participation of 15 local football academies forming 34 teams. The event promises audiences a fully immersive experience both on and off the pitch. Matches will be held across four simultaneous fields, with each half lasting 12 minutes. Surrounding areas will feature a retail and entertainment village offering family-friendly activities, a vibrant social atmosphere, and a variety of restaurants and cafés, creating a lively environment that blends sport, leisure, and community.

Entry and match attendance are free for all, inviting everyone to support young players and share in the message of humanity and solidarity through sport.

Match Schedule:

• November 6th: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM

• November 7th: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Opening & Closing Ceremony:

• November 7th: 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM, featuring an exhibition match by Kuwait’s U-17 Women’s National Team

Key Figures:

●             400 boys and girls

●             Average age: 8–11 years

●             34 teams from 15 academies

●             12-minute half-time per match

●             Two days is the duration of the tournament

●             Pitch is divided into four small fields hosting simultaneous games

●             One goal: solidarity with Palestinian children through unity among Kuwait’s youth of all nationalities

This tournament introduces a creative format never before seen in Kuwait, the GCC, or even globally. Children will manage the games themselves — with no referees — while coaches’ roles are limited to substitutions and overall conduct. Players who demonstrate responsibility, humility, and sportsmanship will receive green cards, and after each match, coaches will select two standout players from the other team in recognition of fair play and teamwork.

The tournament concludes with mixed-team games, with no scores, rankings, or first-place trophies, ensuring a competitive experience grounded in fairness, inclusion, and the spirit of humanity. This reflects the initiative’s vision to give children the chance to enjoy sports as a holistic way of life, while reinforcing ethical and humanitarian values and noble goals.

The Kuwait Football Association (KFA) dedicated its full technical and administrative support to ensure the success of the initiative. The Association contributed exclusive football memorabilia to the charity auction, alongside original items provided by the embassies of participating countries from their national teams and clubs.

The KFA also engaged its grassroots programs, coordinated with the Kuwait Football Academies Union, and organized an exhibition match featuring Kuwait’s U-17 women’s national team. This contribution reflects the Association’s commitment to its sporting and social role by using football as a platform to serve the community and promote humanitarian and social values.

For the latest updates, follow the initiative on Instagram:instagram.com/footballhumanitykw. Also, to bid on or view the auction, visit: https://4mazad.com/products/productss/71.