Published: September 26, 2025
MONROVIA — Liberia’s grassroots football has scored a milestone as Gar’ou Football Club has been accepted to compete in the 76th Viareggio Cup World Football Tournament Coppa Carnevale, one of the world’s premier youth competitions, set for March 9–23, 2026, in Viareggio, Italy.
The Viareggio Cup, founded in 1949, is regarded as one of the most prestigious youth tournaments globally, attracting elite academies, clubs and scouts. It has launched countless professional careers, making Gar’ou’s inclusion a landmark moment for Liberian football.
Under tournament rules, participating teams must register players born on or after Jan. 1, 2008, with a minimum age of 15. Each squad may also include up to five players born in 2007.
‘A Victory for the Nation’
Gar’ou FC Chief Executive Officer Alvin Clarke described the club’s acceptance as a win not only for the team but for the entire country.
“We believe this is historic for Liberia, and so we need all the expertise — from media, stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and especially other players that fit the age category — for the greater good of the nation,” Clarke said.
He stressed that the tournament should be embraced as a national opportunity to showcase Liberian talent on a global stage.
“By the grace of God, we have decided that this is for the country. While it came through FC Gar’ou, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity as it is the biggest youth tournament any Liberian football team has ever been accepted to,” he said. “We don’t want to own it. We are a channel, not host.”
Seeking National Support
Clarke said the club has already notified President Joseph Boakai’s office, the Liberia Football Association and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, urging national backing.
“We want the best minds, home and abroad, to converge on planning and organizing this, in order for Liberia to make a loud statement of comeback to global football,” he said. “This is an opportunity to put Liberians back in the top leagues. Club and academy owners must recommend their best players who fit the technical profiles for inclusion.”
Historic Opportunity
The 2025 Viareggio Cup was won by Genoa FC, with Fiorentina finishing as runners-up. As Gar’ou FC prepares to make its debut, expectations are high that the Liberian side will gain valuable experience and inspire a new generation of footballers at home.
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