Neymar Jr. is bringing his signature five-a-side tourney back to the United States – Neymar Jr.’s Five. A year ago, more than 100,000 players from 53 countries took part in Neymar Jr’s Five. After all was said and done Romania came out on top. But, with over 100K turning out how could you not give it another go.
This year the tourney spans the globe, hitting up over 15 U.S. cities and 60 countries on six continents. If those numbers aren’t impressive these should be – the tourney is bringing more than 14,000 five-a-side teams together to decide who will reign as global male and female champions of the Brazilian legend’s signature tournament.
“I’m very happy to increase the number of players, the number of teams signing up and the number of countries has also increased,” said Neymar Jr. “It’s very big but I hope it can get even bigger. We have more teams than the World Cup, which has 32 teams. What makes me really excited is that each edition brings more players from more countries so I’m glad to know that everyone wants to participate, and I feel happy to be part of it, this is what excites me the most.”
The Competition
This year even more teams will compete at qualifiers for the chance to show off their skills at the World Final under the watchful eyes of Neymar Jr. at his Instituto Projeto Neymar Jr. in Praia Grande, Brazil. In the U.S., the first qualifier kicks off in Atlanta on March 24th and the U.S. finals will take place in Miami for a third year in a row to decide who moves on to the World Finals in Brazil. In addition, the U.S. is hosting 50+ pre-qualifiers where teams can get accustomed to the innovative format and define strategies for success. Want to be on the podium in Brazil this year? To find out about the qualifiers and the pathway to Brazil, go to www.neymarjrsfive.com and sign up your five-a-side team.
The Rules
Know before you go. This tourney is a little different than the rest. Think WWE meets Mad Max. The format is unique and challenging for the male and female divisions – 10 minutes of intense action, no goalkeepers and teams lose a player every time the opposition scores. A game lasts for 10 minutes or until no one is left! For a full look at las reglas, peep the Rule Book here. and check out a full 10 minute championship match below.
The Extras
In addition, a worldwide search has begun for two lucky fans to join Neymar Jr’s team in Brazil for a friendly match vs the male and female champions of his five-a-side tournament. This contest celebrates the launch of a special edition Red Bull can featuring the Brazilian star. The competition encourages individuals to submit creative photos, videos and boomerangs on Instagram using the hashtag #Neymarjrsteam, showcasing their skills and why they should be chosen to be a part of Neymar Jr’s team. Visit www.neymarjrsteam.com to learn more.