An artist's impression of how Glasgow's George Square will look during this summer's Homeless World Cup has been released by the tournament's organisers
Glasgow's George Square will be transformed into a stunning temporary football arena with seating for 3,500 spectators during this summer's Homeless World Cup
Due to be held from 10 to 16 July the tournament will be played on three artificial pitches in the city centre square with seating around each one.
Organisers, the Homeless World Cup Foundation, released as artist’s impression of what the square will look like and revealed in addition to each of the pitches, there will be space for music and merchandise.
All historic monuments, including the city’s Cenotaph, are to be fully respected in the course of transforming the square.
Homeless World Cup Co-Founder Mel Young said he hopes 10,000 supporters will attend the tournament, which is being funded by the Scottish Government and Glasgow Life.
“George Square is a unique location to host this year’s Homeless World Cup,” he said.
“Our mission is to bring the tournament to the centre of the cities we visit, because homelessness isn’t something that should be tucked away. We need to talk about it, therefore being here was very important.
“The nature of the site means it’s an interesting build which has involved a real multi-agency approach, particularly with our colleagues at Glasgow Life, but we’re confident that when the wrappers come off for real in July, Glasgow will be amazed – and ready to join a real celebration.”
A total of 48 men’s and 16 women’s sides are due to participate in the tournament which was last held in Scotland in 2005.
Depute leader of Glasgow City Council and chair of Glasgow Life councillor Archie Graham OBE added: “The Homeless World Cup will be one of the highlights of a spectacular year of sport in Glasgow.
“George Square will come alive as thousands of fans cheer on teams from across the globe during what is shaping up to me an inspiring and unmissable festival of football.”
