The second edition of the Hong Kong Football Festival (HKFF) will return this summer, bringing four European giants — Manchester City, Inter Milan, Chelsea FC and Juventus — to the Kai Tak Stadium for two blockbuster fixtures from July 31 to August 5.
Organized by TEG Sport and supported by the Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA), the festival follows a record-breaking debut that drew more than 100,000 fans. This year's edition is positioned as a key preseason stop for the clubs ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, while also riding the global momentum of a FIFA World Cup year.
Two headline matches have been confirmed: Manchester City will face Inter in the Asahi Super Dry Trophy on August 1, while Chelsea take on Juventus in the Herbalgy Trophy on August 5.
Both matches will be staged at the 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium, a venue officials described as a "game changer" for Hong Kong's ambitions as a global sports hub.
Speaking at the launch, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law said the event underscores Hong Kong's growing appeal for major international sports events.
She highlighted the city's ability to attract top-tier teams and large audiences, noting that Kai Tak has already welcomed over two million visitors since opening and recently hosted more than 110,000 spectators during the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens.
TEG Sport Managing Director Rachael Carroll said the 2026 lineup was deliberately curated to ensure quality despite the congested global football calendar.
With players from more than 35 nations across the four squads, she said the clubs' depth would guarantee "elite-level competition" even as some players observe mandated rest periods following international duty.
HKFA Chairman Eric Fok described the festival as more than just exhibition matches, emphasizing its role in developing local football culture.
"Events like this allow young players, coaches and fans in Hong Kong to witness the highest level of football up close," he said, adding that last year's audience was split almost evenly between local and overseas visitors — a balance the association expects to maintain.
Kai Tak Sports Park CEO Andrew Kam, said hosting the tournament again reflects international confidence in Hong Kong as a destination for major events.
He added that the stadium's advanced design and technology aim to deliver an "immersive and unforgettable" fan experience.
Legends highlight fan impact and competitive edge
The launch event also featured football legends representing the four clubs, offering insight into the significance of the festival beyond the pitch.
Former Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips described the matches as "a dream come true" opportunity for young fans in Hong Kong to see elite players in person, adding that such exposure can inspire the next generation to pursue professional careers.
Representing Inter, Christian Vieri praised Hong Kong's new stadium and predicted high-intensity matches, noting that modern preseason tours now feature top-level opposition rather than traditional friendlies.
"Fans will see exciting attacking football," he said, pointing to Inter's current squad strength such as Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram.
Former Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo, who previously visited Hong Kong in 2011, said preseason matches have become highly competitive.
"They are no longer just friendlies — supporters will feel the intensity of Champions League and Premier League games," he said, while also recalling his fondness for the city's food and atmosphere.
Juventus legend Edgar Davids emphasized the importance of preseason fixtures against top clubs as a benchmark for teams.
"It's a real test to see where you stand," he said, adding that such matches are valuable for both players and fans.
Ticketing information
Ticket sales will begin with a pre-sale on May 13, followed by general public sales on May 14. Prices range from HK$399 to HK$2,999, with open training sessions available at HK$299.
Travel packages for international fans will be offered through Trip.com starting May 7.
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