RICHMOND, Va. (January 2, 2026) - The ECNL is proud to announce a long-term partnership with the IBERCUP to bring some of the most prestigious clubs in the world to America for an international boys youth tournament for the first time.
IBERCUP x ECNL International - Raleigh, NC USA 2026 will kick off Labor Day Weekend in 2026, bringing players and teams from around the world to North Carolina for an event unlike any other in the United States. Nearly 200 U11 and U12 teams from Europe, South America, Asia and the United States will play in the four-day tournament providing unique competitive, developmental and cultural opportunities for players, teams, coaches, and clubs.
"For nearly two decades the ECNL has brought together the best organizations in America for competition, and we are thrilled to be able to expand that mission to bring some of the best clubs across the globe here to the United States," said ECNL President Christian Lavers. "The IBERCUP has hosted fantastic events all over the world, featuring household club names with future world stars, and we could not have asked for a better partner to help create what will be the most exciting event on the calendar for U11 and U12 American soccer players. And we also could not have hosted this incredible event without NCFC, as WRAL Soccer Park is the perfect venue for this inaugural competition."
"This partnership with ECNL is an important milestone for IBERCUP," added Filipe Rodrigues, President of IBERCUP. "Bringing an international Ibercup tournament to the United States has long been part of our vision. Together with ECNL, we will offer young players a competitive environment that reflects the reality of international football, where performance, learning, and cultural exchange go hand in hand. We are confident this event will become a reference point for youth football in the U.S."
IBERCUP x ECNL International - Raleigh, NC USA 2026 will provide 7v7 min-game competition at U11 and U12 boys age groups. Teams will be guaranteed six games during the four day event, with every team competing for the tournament championship in a combination of group and knock-out play.
More information regarding IBERCUP x ECNL International - Raleigh, NC USA 2026, including competing teams and group placements, will be announced at a later date.
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About the IBERCUP:
The Ibercup is one of the most recognized and respected youth soccer tournaments in the world. Since 2010, it has hosted thousands of teams from over 120 countries, offering a platform where young players compete, develop, and connect through the game. With tournaments held across Europe, the Americas, and Asia, Ibercup combines international exposure with professional-level organization, making it a key reference point in global youth soccer.
The tournament consistently attracts youth academies from some of the most renowned clubs in international soccer, providing a unique opportunity for young players to compete at the highest level of their age group and showcase their talent to the world. This global mix of talent and cultures reflects Ibercup's commitment to excellence, inclusion, and meaningful player development, while reinforcing its reputation as a trusted and influential name in youth soccer.
About the ECNL:
The ECNL is the nation's leading youth soccer development platform for America's top soccer players. The ECNL mission to provide the best youth sports experience in the world drives constant innovations in competitions and experiences for players, parents, families, coaches, referees, and partners. The ECNL has questioned convention and challenged the status quo of youth sport since 2009, pushing boundaries and striving for unmatched excellence. Together with its clubs and club leaders, the ECNL creates unforgettable memories and supports the development of youth players into college stars, professionals, world champions, and leaders.
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