In the heart of South London, Fulham FC Foundation hosted an energetic three-day football tournament this October as part of an annual even called ‘Lambeth World Cup’. The event saw local talent, community spirit, and youthful enthusiasm come together for a series of exciting matches that left players with memorable experiences. The tournament was organized by Fulham and welcomed participants from their Lambeth-based community sessions alongside several external teams from across London, making it a significant gathering for young footballers in the area.
The Lambeth World Cup wasn’t just a football tournament—it was an opportunity to build community ties, encourage physical fitness, and offer young footballers a constructive way to spend their half-term break. For Fulham FC Foundation, the event reflected our ongoing commitment to making football accessible and engaging for people aged 10 to 18 and all backgrounds in Lambeth.
Fulham runs four Premier League Kicks sessions based in Lambeth, many focused on inclusivity, skill-building, and creating positive environments for youth development. Premier League Kicks, funded by the Premier League through the Premier League Charitable Fund, uses the power of football and sport to inspire young people to reach their potential, in some of the most high-need areas in England and Wales.
Participants included both familiar faces from Fulham Kicks’ regular Lambeth sessions and players from external teams, some of whom travelled to take part in this vibrant event. The tournament adopted a group-stage format followed by knockout rounds, allowing every team a fair chance to play multiple matches and improve as they advanced. Players ranged widely in age, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere where emerging talent had the chance to learn from more seasoned teammates and opponents alike.
One of the standout features of the Lambeth World Cup this year was a dedicated day for female participants, which spotlighted the talent and enthusiasm of young female footballers in the community. This day served as a celebration of inclusivity and a strong commitment to supporting the growth of girls’ football at a grassroots level. By creating a space specifically for female players, the tournament encouraged girls to compete, connect, and showcase their skills in an empowering environment.
“The atmosphere was brilliant over the three days, with each match showcasing an inspiring blend of skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship. For many young players, this tournament provided their first experience of competitive football, and they rose to the occasion, displaying impressive dedication, adaptability, and resilience throughout the game.” - Christian Thompson, Youth Engagement Officer, Fulham FC Foundation
The Lambeth World Cup emphasised more than just the competitive aspect of sports. Events like these foster confidence, discipline, and leadership skills in young participants. They also provide a unique chance for players to interact with others from different backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and mutual respect. For those involved, it was clear that football was more than just a game, it was a way to connect, learn, and grow.
“It was great to take part in the competition. There were lots of players and teams present and all the games were competitive and fun. It gave me an opportunity to test my skills against some other teams. I wasn’t lucky enough to be on the winning team but I am already looking forward to next year.” - Josiah, Kicks participant.
Fulham FC Foundation’s community coaches also used this time to teach players about the importance of teamwork, responsibility, and fair play, essential life skills that young athletes will carry with them beyond the field.
The success of the Lambeth World Cup has become a recurring event in the Fulham FC Foundation’s calendar, with hopes to involve even more teams and community groups in the future. It also serves as a reminder of the power of sports in community building and youth development. By creating a space where young athletes feel supported, encouraged, and challenged, Fulham FC Foundation is not only nurturing future football talents but also contributing positively to the Lambeth community.
The Lambeth World Cup was a celebration of sport, community, and the unifying power of football. It showed that with the right support and opportunities, young people could channel their energy into something positive and fulfilling. This October, Lambeth not only hosted a tournament; it celebrated a shared passion, and in doing so, laid the groundwork for a lasting legacy in youth sports.
To find out more about Fulham Kicks visit fulhamkicks.com.
