World Cup 2026 build-up: FA urges Victorian Government to overturn live site decision

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Image credit: FiledIMAGE / Shutterstock.com

Football Australia responded yesterday to the decision by Melbourne Arts Precinct not to host live watch parties during this year’s FIFA World Cup tournament.

FA urges reconsideration

Citing safety concerns, Melbourne Arts Precinct announced that live watch parties would not take place this summer.

As a result, many fans and officials are eager to see the decision overturned as they look forward to rallying behind the Socceroos at their seventh FIFA World Cup tournament.

Football Australia revealed yesterday that they are speaking to both the Victorian Government and the Melbourne Arts Precinct to ensure fans across the city can view live matches together.

“The FIFA World Cup is the biggest sporting event in the world and unites Australia’s multicultural communities, while reinforcing our national identity,” explained Football Australia CEO, Martin Kugeler, via official press release.

“Live sites create iconic moments for Australian sports fans. They bring all Australians together to celebrate and cheer our National Teams competing on the biggest stage.”

“Melbourne is one of Australia’s sporting and multicultural capitals, and this decision goes against this tradition.”

 

Celebration vs safety

While many will be backing the FA in their call to overturn the decision, the motivations behind it nevertheless stand to reason.

With thousands of fans packed into an outdoor, public space like Federation Square, guaranteeing order and safety becomes increasingly difficult to deliver.

During the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, up to 12,000 fans attended the semi-final screening against England. And although the majority were there to enjoy and support, a small minority took the opportunity to light and throw flares.

Therefore, the response from the FA begs an important question in staging live sporting events:

At what point do celebrations compromise safety?

 

Final thoughts

Football brings people together, and international tournaments allow fans to display pride for their respective nations.

But safety remains an absolute priority in sports – from the athletes on the pitch to the fans in the stadium or, during major tournaments, at popular live sites.

Hopefully, an agreement can be reached which balances both aspects of the game.

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LALIGA and EA SPORTS FC collaborate in community pitch project

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Image credit: EA SPORTS FC Electronic Arts

Part of the EA SPORTS FC FUTURES grassroots initiative, the newly refurbished pitch will provide New York kids with a safe, inclusive space to enjoy the game in their community.

 

From Europe to US

In the heart of the Bronx, New York, LALIGA and EA SPORTS FC unveiled the new space as the 10th collaboration between the two parties to bring pitches to future generations.

It marks an exciting development not just for community infrastructure, but for representing the global reach and connections made possible through football.

Furthermore, with support from local artist, BG183, The William Lloyd Garrison School, and soccer-inspired education and youth support program, South Bronx United, it stands as a symbol of local pride and grassroots commitment.

“This project in New York is especially meaningful because it brings together access to sport, long-term community impact and a strong local identity,” explained LALIGA’s Executive Director of Business, Jorge de la Vega.

“Together with EA SPORTS FC and our community partners, we want this pitch to become a place where young people can play, grow and find new opportunities.”

 

Using platforms for wider growth

This is a project which provides aspiring young footballers with the facilities they need to thrive in their personal and sporting development.

And although it carries an emphasis on local values, the global work and vision of EA SPORTS FC and LALIGA is undeniable.

The former now supports similar initiatives across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and right here in Australia. The Sam Kerr Pitch, unveiled in Sydney in 2023, provides young girls with free access to a high-quality space.

Thus, EA SPORTS FC is showing a unique combination in its community investment strategy: the global name of LALIGA, paired with collaboration from local organisations, ultimately establishing something even bigger.

“While EA SPORTS FC lives in the game, our ambition goes beyond it – working with partners like LALIGA and local communities to create spaces where football can be played and experienced physically,” outlined EA SPORTS FC Senior Director, Partnerships Marketing, James Salmon.

“Projects like this in the South Bronx show how football can bring people together and create lasting impact.”

 

Small space, big impact

Although this may be one small pitch in the Bronx, its signficance resonates with grassroots communities across the world who know its true value.

Hopefully, EA SPORTS FC will continue to show their commitment to next generations for many years to come.

Football Pro Directory Launches as Australia’s New Digital Hub for the Football Industry

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Image Credit: One-Nil Media

As Australian football continues to expand across grassroots, NPL and professional levels, a new platform is aiming to connect the entire ecosystem in one central place.

Football Pro Directory has officially launched as a dedicated online hub designed to bring together clubs, governing bodies, suppliers, service providers and industry professionals from across the Australian football landscape.

Part of the One-Nil Media family, the platform has been built to simplify how football organisations discover trusted partners, access resources and grow meaningful industry connections.

At a time when clubs are navigating increasing operational demands both on and off the pitch, Football Pro Directory provides a streamlined destination for organisations seeking support across areas such as coaching, technology, media, sponsorship, infrastructure, equipment, medical services and fan engagement.

The platform also offers businesses and organisations the opportunity to elevate their visibility within the football industry through premium listings, tailored campaigns and feature-driven storytelling designed to connect directly with decision-makers across the game.

From grassroots clubs searching for operational support to professional organisations looking for specialist services, Football Pro Directory has been positioned as a practical tool built specifically for the realities of modern football administration.

Backed by Soccerscene’s established football media network, the directory combines industry exposure with educational resources and business opportunities, helping organisations strengthen their presence within Australia’s rapidly evolving football ecosystem.

The platform features categories spanning football clubs, professional services, football technology, media and marketing, photography, medical providers and equipment suppliers, alongside resources focused on grants, facilities, coaching, sponsorship and industry innovation.

As football increasingly embraces digital transformation and interconnected industry networks, Football Pro Directory arrives as a platform designed to make collaboration, visibility and growth more accessible across every level of the game.

To explore the platform or list your organisation, visit Football Pro Directory.

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