The brewer hopes up to 2,000 five-a-side pub teams will compete in the Carlsberg Cup, which will run from March until May. Teams will compete at 80 different Goals and Powerleague venues across the UK for a place in one of the 16 regional finals, the winners of which will go on to appear at a grand final in Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium in north London.
Green cards will be awarded by match referees to teams that show true sportsmanship, have an interesting story or the best supporting fans. These teams will be entered into a draw to play in a separate tournament on the same day.
The overall winner will take part in a pre-tournament training session, be measured for suits and presented with full playing kit, before flying to represent their country against a team of European legends, which include Fabrizio Ravanelli and Michel Salgado – all under the management of former England international Gareth Southgate. They will also receive VIP guest treatment at the Sweden v England match on 15 June.
Southgate was on hand to launch the Carlsberg Cup at Shepherd Neame pub Freemasons Arms in London – the birthplace of The FA in 1863.
He said: “This is a great opportunity for players of all standards to get involved in this fantastic five-a-side competition. The Green Card tournament means all entrants, whatever their standards, have the opportunity to reach the grand final at Emirates Stadium. So I urge everyone to take part - your pub really does need you!”
Carlsberg senior brand manager Dharmesh Rana added: “Pubs can really benefit from football this year. The Carlsberg Pub Cup not only offers players the chance to get involved but encourages publicans from across the country to get involved in the build-up and excitement around Euro 2012, and to get behind England as pubs are a great place to watch football.”
Pubs must be a Carlsberg stockist to be eligible to enter teams. Entrance fee is £25 per team and the deadline for entry is 2 March. Visit www.carlsberg.co.uk/pubcup for more information.