English FA Cup organisers have announced that the trophy will be making a stop in the United States of America in a bid to connect with football fans in the country.
As part of plans to help grow the competition in America, the FA Cup trophy will be displayed in Miami for 10 days starting this week to celebrate football’s oldest club competition.
Chelsea legend Joe Cole, who finished his career playing for MLS side Tampa Bay Rowdies, will be accompanying the FA Cup during the tour to speak about his experiences winning the trophy on two occasions.
“The Emirates FA Cup is one of the most prestigious trophies in England and around the world, so to win it twice meant the world to me,” Cole said in a statement announcing the tour.
He added, “I’m excited to partner with Emirates and the FA to bring the excitement of this famous competition to soccer fans in the Sunshine State.”
Commercial director of the Football Association James Gray also added: “The U.S. represents one of the most exciting and highly-engaged soccer fan bases in the world.”
Gray also said: “By bringing the Emirates FA Cup to Miami, it provides us with an opportunity to give something back to the wonderful football community who have helped to grow the game while providing a platform for younger fans to be inspired by the magic of this historic competition.”
Fans in the United States will be able can meet Cole and see the FA Cup trophy in person as they tour across Miami at various sporting and entertainment events, including the Chase Stadium and the Hard Rock Stadium.
The tour will conclude with a pair of watch parties at the Temple House for two FA Cup quarter-final matches, Brighton & Hove Albion vs Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth vs Manchester City.