The international grassroots football tournament COTIF has begun in l'Alcúdia with national teams and youth clubs. The competition, which will run until July 30, boasts having developed 19 players who later competed in World Cups.
The Estadio Municipal dels Arcs in l'Alcúdia hosted the inauguration of the 42nd edition of COTIF this Thursday, the international grassroots football tournament that brings together national teams and youth clubs every summer. The event, which will last until July 30, was attended by the General Director of Sports of the Generalitat Valenciana, Luis Cervera.
A breeding ground for World Cup stars
COTIF prides itself on being the springboard for 19 footballers who later participated in World Cups with teams such as Argentina, Mexico, Uruguay, Spain, the United States, Qatar, and Colombia. Among the notable names who passed through l'Alcúdia are the Spanish world champions Ferran Torres, Cucurella, and Álex Baena, as well as players who reached the final with Argentina.
The organisation has recalled that coaches of the calibre of Luis de la Fuente (Spain) and Lionel Scaloni (Argentina) have also graced the tournament. "It is a true school for footballers who will later become professionals," Cervera emphasised during the opening ceremony.
Economic impact: every euro generates 10.2 euros in sales
Beyond sports, COTIF leaves a significant impact on the Valencian economy. According to data provided by the Generalitat, for every euro invested in the organisation, 3.1 euros of GDP and 10.2 euros in sales for companies in the Comunitat Valenciana are generated. The most benefited sectors are hospitality, commerce, and business services.
Cervera compared these figures with those of other major sporting events in the region, highlighting that the tournament "ranks at the top of the international circuit for this type of competition." This year's edition features national teams such as Morocco and Mauritania, in addition to youth teams and the women's tournament Cañamás Naranja COTIF Femenino and the COTIF Promesas Istobal.
For grassroots football fans in Mallorca, COTIF is an unmissable summer event, even though this year there is no direct representation from the islands. The tournament can be followed via streaming, and tickets for the most notable matches, such as those of the national teams, are already sold out on the official website. Those who visit l'Alcúdia will find a festive atmosphere and the opportunity to see the future stars of world football.
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