THEY may be aged 70, 75 and even 80-plus, but more than 500 veteran footballers are proving their running game is far from over with a world tournament kicking off in the Redlands.
After a late withdrawal from England, the 70s Plus Football World Cup 2026 has brought 25 teams from six countries to Redlands United Football Club this week – the first time the event has been staged in Australia.
This week also marks the first international Over-80s football competition held in the country.
With players joined by partners, families and supporters, organisers expect an influx of about 1000 people into the Cleveland area across the week.
Redland City Acting Mayor Julie Talty said the tournament was a major opportunity for the city, particularly during Seniors Month.
“The 70s Plus Football World Cup is a wonderful opportunity for Redlands Coast and we are proud that our city will be hosting the first such tournament ever held in Australia,” Cr Talty said.
“Having senior competitors and enthusiasts visit our age-friendly city, especially during our chosen Seniors awareness month, is exciting and provides a chance for our older residents to shine, and for our younger residents to be proud of their elders.”
The event includes three age divisions, with the 70-plus competition played 11-a-side on a full-sized pitch.
The 75-plus and 80-plus divisions will be played eight-a-side on half-pitches with every match lasting 30 minutes.
Games will run across several fields at Redlands United FC, with finals and presentations to follow at Sirromet Winery at the end of the tournament.
Council has contributed $7676 through its Events Grant Program, which supports events expected to benefit Redlands Coast and encourage local economic activity.
A preliminary assessment found the five-day tournament was likely to generate spending across local food and beverage businesses, transport services and tourism operators.
Cr Talty said the influx of visitors would be welcome news for Cleveland and surrounding businesses.
“It’s great news for local businesses, food and beverage providers, and tourism operators in Cleveland and surrounds with the event expected to attract hundreds of people, including a large contingent of overseas visitors,” she said.
“Council’s support for the program through the grants program recognises the important economic and social benefits it will bring to the city across the five days of competition.”
Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce president Aaron Weir said the benefits would extend well beyond the football fields.
“Events like the Over 70s World Cup create a ripple effect throughout our community, generating positive energy across local businesses, tourism operators and community groups,” Mr Weir said.
“Visitors not only attend the event, but they also explore our islands, dine in local restaurants, visit attractions, shop in local stores and experience our unique lifestyle.”
Under Council’s Events Strategy, day visitors to Redlands Coast are estimated to contribute an average of $121 a day to the local economy, with overnight visitors contributing more.
Council has also provided organisers with information on local attractions, accommodation, dining and entertainment options to encourage international visitors to extend their stay and explore the region.
Redlands United Football Club treasurer Barry Hart said the club was honoured to host an event with such a significant international profile.
“Hosting an international tournament of this calibre is a tremendous opportunity for our club and for the wider Redlands community,” Mr Hart said.
“It is a chance to highlight the important role community sport plays in bringing people together, regardless of age, and to demonstrate that football truly is a game for life.”
Mr Hart said considerable work and expense had gone into maintaining the club’s fields throughout the year to ensure they were at a high standard for the five-day tournament.
Previous World Cup hosts have included Japan, Denmark and Thailand.
Cr Talty said Redlands Coast was excited to join that list as the city built its sporting reputation ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“We are excited to be adding Redlands Coast to that list, further strengthening our reputation as a go-to location,” she said.
“We are looking forward to welcoming international visitors to explore Redlands Coast and wish all participants, officials, volunteers and supporters the very best for the competition.”
