14/05/2026
Carate Brianza Ready to Welcome the CONIFA European Championship 2026
The countdown has officially begun for the CONIFA European Championship 2026, with Carate Brianza preparing to host one of the most anticipated tournaments in non-FIFA football.
Organizers describe the event as more than just a football competition โ it is an opportunity to showcase culture, community, and the growing international reach of independent football.
Hosting the tournament represents a major milestone for Carate Brianza. Officials believe the event will provide significant international visibility for the city while highlighting both its sporting infrastructure and cultural heritage. Alongside matches at the renowned Sportitalia Village, visitors will also have the opportunity to discover local landmarks such as the historic Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Agliate, dating back to the 10th century.
The 2026 edition carries special significance for CONIFA after previous editions were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating earthquake in Turkey in 2023, which forced the cancellation of two tournaments.
Organizers say their expectation is simple: successfully deliver the fourth CONIFA European Championship and open a new chapter for non-FIFA football.
โThis is something never seen before,โ organizers explained, praising participating football associations for understanding the significant financial commitment required to take part. โI believe we are writing a new chapter in non-FIFA football.โ
One of the most innovative aspects of the 2026 championship is the financial structure behind the tournament. For the first time, participating associations are contributing directly through their own treasuries, creating what organizers describe as a new challenge and evolution for CONIFA competitions.
The tournament will also introduce a dedicated ticket sales platform โ another first for a continental CONIFA event โ aimed at making the championship financially sustainable while strengthening fan engagement.
Fans attending the competition can expect a vibrant atmosphere throughout Carate Brianza and nearby Verano Brianza. New associations including Greenland, Rouet Provence, and the Canton of Ticino are set to participate, adding fresh excitement to the tournament.
The modern facilities at Sportitalia Village are expected to provide an ideal environment for both players and supporters. Organizers have also promised several new features, including pre-match interviews with teams discussing their preparations and ambitions before each fixture.
When asked which teams could surprise audiences in 2026, organizers avoided singling out favourites.
โI believe all of them,โ they said, encouraging supporters not to judge teams solely โby the data on paper.โ
While the tournament schedule remains largely consistent with previous editions, organizers emphasized that the standards and values behind the event have evolved significantly. Special praise was given to the organizing committee for its dedication and hard work in preparing the championship.
The success of the event, they noted, will truly be measured after the finals conclude on June 7.
Beyond the football itself, organizers hope players will leave Carate Brianza with lasting memories of the tournamentโs professionalism, atmosphere, and competitive spirit.
โI hope all the players will be impressed by the quality of the organization, the opportunity to test their skills, and the support from the fans,โ organizers said.
At its core, the tournament aims to promote values that have always defined CONIFA: respect, friendship, sport, and human relationships.
A special message was also delivered to supporters planning to attend.
โCome in large numbers to the Carate Brianza and Verano Brianza stadiums, and thanks to your ticket, youโll be heroes,โ organizers said. โHeroes because youโll support our football vision and help us grow and be present at future events.โ
Looking ahead to the tournament, organizers expressed excitement for every major moment on the calendar โ from the opening press conference on June 1, to the matches, the cultural day in Carate Brianza, and ultimately the finals and award ceremonies.
โAll moments to savor step by step,โ they said.
Summing up the spirit of the tournament in a single sentence, organizers quoted legendary Italian footballer Francesco Totti:
โCollective commitment is more important than personal leadership.โ
