Latin Americans set to celebrate Colombia’s Independence Day with carnival and football
In celebration of Colombia’s Independence Day, Latin Americans will take to Crystal Palace for a day of carnival and football.
More than 200 attendees are set to gather at the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre on July 21, in an event organised by Futsallers and Carnaval del Pueblo, with the support of The London Football Association.
Futsal is the FIFA-recognised form of small-sided indoor football – the word is a contraction of the Spanish ‘fútbol sala’. Carnaval del Pueblo is the largest Latin American festival in the UK, celebrating the cultures of the 19 Latin American countries through music, dance, and community events.
The futsal tournament will feature 16 teams of young British Latin Americans and other communities wanting to participate.
Drew Patterson, chief executive officer of Futsallers, vice president of The London Football Association as well as football legends and influential personalities will be present.
Mr Patterson said: “We aim to highlight and shine a light on the immense talent within the Latin American community in the UK.
“The Latin American Community is historically under-represented in football in the UK, so we are encouraging members from the Latin American Community and are excited to welcome teams to play Futsal in this tournament.
“Futsal is more than a game, it’s a movement that redefines grassroots sports by fostering community, inclusivity, and opportunity while nurturing future talent.”
More than 120 young Latin American players will benefit from this very first futsal tournament in London, part of Futsaller’s 2024 plans.
Mr Patterson said: “We are committed to positively impacting our young players’ lives. That’s why we’re striving to develop Futsal as an Olympic sport.
“We are enjoying being pioneers on this, but it’s a project we will announce soon.”
Beyond the matches, the event will also spotlight emerging Latin American entrepreneurs, offering a taste of their culinary and artisan creations.
Nuala Riddell-Morales, director of Carnaval del Pueblo said: “This family-friendly event is a celebration of Colombian culture and heritage with Latin American food stalls and cultural performances.
“We’re also providing an opportunity for Latin American entrepreneurs in the UK to showcase their talents as part of our Power up London, Southwark Thriving High Streets and Southwark Latin American Creative Health Projects”.
The event is free to attend, with a £20 registration fee for adult teams. It will take place on July 21, at 10am, running until 4pm, at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre.
Pictured top: Young Futsallers take to the indoor pitch (Picture: Futsallers Foundation/ https://www.futsallers.com/)
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