The sports event was organised by Adem Preljevic from the Academy of sport (Novi Pazar) bringing together over 1700 young footballers, visitors and supporters in 7 different age groups. During the three-day “Balkan kup” more than 170 matches were played.
“It is a pleasure for me that Novi Pazar has evolved into a breeding ground for young and ambitious football players” stated the representative of the city council of Novi Pazar, Suadetin Mujezinovic, welcoming the audience and the athletes to the event which was opened by a folklore dance group.
“The Balkan kup showed that football does not know barriers and offers a great platform for a better tomorrow for our youngest members in society who – in this very event – represented their countries fabulously. Our common wish is to see sports fields become a place where the fight against racism, nationalism and all forms of discrimination starts. This message we want to communicate to our youngest who then can act as role models” said docent dr. Adem Preljevic.
The tournament was conducted in a constructive and friendly spirit without any incidents, injuries or verbal slanders. Being followed by print media the event was able to reach a broad audience.
The event was supported by the Balkan Alpe Adria Project (BAAP) and FairPlay-VIDC in the framework of the anti-racist football project “Football Unites the Alps, Adriatic and the Balkans".