Teams from all over the World will begin arriving in Australia next week with just 10 days until the start of the much-anticipated FIPFA Powerchair World Cup 2023.
Australia’s Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), will perform the official opening on Sunday 15th October ahead of the first game, a clash between Australia and the USA.
Squads from as far away as Argentina, England, USA, Japan and France are gearing up to touch down in Sydney’s stunning city to compete for the coveted title over six days between ten competing nations.
“The FIPFA Powerchair Football World Cup will be a terrific event and I encourage people in Sydney to get out and support the games,” the Governor-General said.
“Powerchair Football is a fantastic spectator sport and the athletes are an inspiration.
“I expect competition during the World Cup to be both fierce and spirited and wish all teams well. That said … Go Australia!”
The FIPFA Powerchair World Cup is the pinnacle of powerchair football, bringing together the best athletes in the sport for a week of intense competition.
This year's tournament at Sydney Olympic Park promises to be the most thrilling yet, with teams from the ten nations vying for glory on the world stage.
Dr. Andy Harper, Chair of the Australia Local Organising Committee, says he can feel the anticipation growing as the tournament gets closer: "I’m excited, the players and their families are all excited and I believe this will be an unforgettable experience for players, officials and spectators.
“It’s another World Cup on our doorstep and it’s time to get behind these teams and salute the hard work they have put in to get to this stage of the tournament.
“We are delighted the Governor-General will be joining us for the first game and it is a privilege to be hosting it here in Sydney and I can’t wait for the matches to begin."
Players and delegations from all participating countries will take part in the opening ceremony with a parade and there will also be a traditional ‘Welcome To Country’ from an indigenous dance troop.
Speeches from the NSW Minister For Sport and the Governor-General will follow ahead of the first game at 1pm with another four matches later in the afternoon.
The President of FIPFA, Ricky Stevenson said: "It will be an honour to have the Governor General attend our opening ceremony to officially open the FIPFA Powerchair World Cup 2023.
“We are sure it will be a fantastic tournament with some great games showcasing the athleticism and skill of the participants.”
The 53 match tournament takes place at the Quay Centre in Sydney Olympic Park, providing the perfect backdrop for this world-class event.
Fans from around the world are encouraged to mark their calendars for 15-20 October 2023, and join us in Sydney to witness history in the making. Whether you're a seasoned powerchair football enthusiast or new to the sport, this World Cup promises to be an unforgettable experience.
For further updates, including the official tournament schedule and ticket information, please visit the official website at https://fipfawc2023.org/ .
