RICHMOND, Va. (March 26, 2026) - The ECNL is excited to announce the first wave of ECNL clubs that will be competing in the inaugural ECNL International IberCup, to be held Labor Day weekend at WRAL Soccer Park in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Concorde Fire Platinum (GA), Eastside FC (WA), Florida Premier, NCFC, Pipeline SC (MD), Richmond United, San Diego Surf, STA (NJ), VDA, and XF Academy (WA) join a lineup of clubs that already features academy teams from AC Milan (Italy), Benfica (Portugal), Gremio (Brazil), Manchester United (England), and Yokohama F. Marinos (Japan).
"We are thrilled to announce this first group of exceptional clubs that will be participating in the inaugural ECNL International IberCup," said Pre-ECNL Commissioner Bobby Reiss. "This group of clubs features talent from all around the country and we are excited to continue to add more clubs in the coming weeks."
"We are thrilled to host the IberCup tournament here in Raleigh, North Carolina," added NCFC ECNL Boys Director Rich Flaim. "This prestigious event represents an incredible opportunity to showcase our club, our city, our facilities, and our passion for the beautiful game on an international stage. We are especially excited to welcome top clubs from around the world to Raleigh. Bringing together such a high level of international talent creates a unique cultural and sporting experience for players, families, and fans alike."
The ECNL International IberCup will provide 7v7 mini-game competition at both the U11 and U12 boys age groups. Teams will be guaranteed five games over the four-day event, with every team competing for a tournament championship through a combination of group and knockout play.
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.
To apply to compete in the inaugural ECNL International IberCup click here.
More teams competing in the ECNL International IberCup will be announced in the coming weeks.
###
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.
www.TheECNL.com
