Junior World Football event for Queenstown

The inaugural Queenstown International Football Cup will kick off in April 2026 at the Queenstown Events Centre, open to teams of all skill levels aged 9 to 16.

Global Games, the organisation behind some of New Zealand’s key junior sports festivals, is teaming up with Queenstown Football Club to launch a new event, the Queenstown International Football Cup, set to put Queenstown firmly on the footballing map.

With rugby and rugby league festivals already drawing thousands to Queenstown each year, this new football partnership marks the next chapter in a bold 10-year vision to bring over 300,000 young athletes, families, and supporters to the region. It also coincides with the opening of Global Games’ national headquarters, in Queenstown.

Founder Tyrone Campbell says the initiative is about more than sport.

“We’re building opportunities for kids to connect across communities, cultures, and countries and we want Queenstown to be at the heart of it.”

The event is funded by entry fees and sponsorship.

In its first year, the tournament will welcome teams from across New Zealand and beyond, with ambitions to grow into a truly international event, attracting clubs from around the world.

To help bring this vision to life, Global Games has brought on board Matt McLennan to lead the tournament. Matt has worked globally with FIFA and served as a Venue General Manager during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. His international experience adds further credibility and capability to the event.

Global Games has been running events across the country for over 15 years, including at the Queenstown Events Centre, where they've hosted the NZ Junior Rugby Festival since 2011.

Their flagship event in Taupō attracts over 15,000 people each year, and we also host events in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

“This is going to be a truly world-class experience for junior players,” says McLennan.

“We want kids to walk away inspired not just by the football, but by the place, the people, and the whole atmosphere Queenstown has to offer.”

Queenstown Football Club President Simon Couldstone is equally excited.

Tyrone Campbell (left) and Simon Couldstone (right)

“It’s an incredible opportunity for our club and our community. Partnering with Global Games gives us the chance to be part of something that’s going to leave a lasting legacy for the region.”

Backed by more than 15 years of growth, Global Games has become a national leader in junior sporting events. Since its first event in 2010, over 70,000 young people aged 7 to 16, and more than 150,000 supporters and family members, have taken part in its festivals across rugby, league, netball and football. Club registrations have grown by more than 300%, with many returning year after year — and with the launch into football, that legacy is only set to grow.

There’s much more to come from Global Games in the Queenstown sporting space, with more announcements on the horizon.

Want to be part of the action?
Expressions of interest for the Queenstown International Football Cup 2026 are now open.Register at: www.globalgames.co.nz If you’re interested in supporting or being part of the wider Global Games movement — or want more information — email: [email protected]