The 2023 Powerchair Football World Cup will be held in Sydney from October 15-20, with 10 countries competing to take the title, that includes the introduction of a round-robin format that allows each nation to play matches against every competing nation.
This innovative format ensures a balanced and fair competition, as after completing the round-robin stage, the tournament will proceed to the knockout phase. The top four ranked teams from the round-robin stage will then advance to the semi-finals based on their accumulated points.
The teams that do not reach the semi-finals will also participate in placement games to determine their final world ranking. There are 53 match tournaments taking place.
The final Australian playing group reflects the strength of domestic competitions and its players. Six of the players have travelled to previous world cups, including the 2017 World Cup ‘Most Valuable Player’ Abdullah Karim from Western Sydney Wanderers and the Australian Captain Dimitri Liolio-Davis from the Newcastle Jets.
Squads include Argentina, England, two-time champions the US, Japan, the Republic of Ireland, Uruguay, Northern Ireland, Denmark and defending champions, France, who will all compete for the coveted title of world powerchair football champions.
Powerchair football is a dynamic and fast-paced version of football, or soccer, that has been adapted for electric wheelchair or powerchair users.
Governor-General, David Hurley will officially open the event ahead of the first game, a clash between Australia and the US.
“The FIFA 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!”
It starts at 1pm on Sunday October 15 at the Quaycentre Olympic Blvd, Sydney Olympic Park.
Entry is free. Visit https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1109018