FA Cup Trophy Tour Heads to Miami to Connect with US Football Fans
Updated: 21:15 GMT, 20 Mar 2025 | Published: 21:10 GMT, 20 Mar 2025
The iconic FA Cup trophy is officially embarking on a journey to Miami, Florida, as part of a strategic initiative to strengthen its connection with the growing American football fanbase. Ahead of the highly anticipated quarter-finals, this prestigious silverware will be showcased across various locations in Miami for ten days, starting this week.
Growing Popularity of English Football in the USA
The move highlights the escalating interest in English football, particularly the Premier League and the FA Cup, among US sports enthusiasts. With viewership figures for the Premier League reaching record highs in recent seasons, the Football Association (FA) is keen to capitalize on this momentum and further cultivate passion for the FA Cup in America.
- Record Viewership: Premier League TV viewership in the US has broken records, demonstrating a significant surge in interest.
- Expanding Fanbase: The FA recognizes the expanding global football community, with American fans increasingly engaging with and following English clubs.
- Strategic Growth Initiative: Taking the FA Cup trophy to Miami is a key part of the FA’s strategy to nurture and expand the competition’s appeal within the American market.
Last season alone, the Premier League witnessed an average of 546,000 viewers per TV match window in the US, surpassing previous records and underscoring the burgeoning appetite for top-tier English football.
To deepen engagement beyond Premier League viewership, the FA is taking proactive steps to spotlight the FA Cup. By showcasing the physical trophy in Miami, they aim to bring the magic and history of this historic knockout tournament directly to American fans.
Chelsea legend Joe Cole, a two-time FA Cup winner and former player for MLS side Tampa Bay Rowdies, will accompany the trophy on its tour. Cole will share his personal experiences of winning the coveted cup and interact with fans at various events.
In an official statement announcing the Miami trophy tour, Joe Cole expressed his enthusiasm: “The Emirates FA Cup is one of the most prestigious trophies in England and around the world, so to win it twice meant the world to me. I’m excited to partner with Emirates and the FA to bring the excitement of this famous competition to soccer fans in the Sunshine State.”
American fans will have multiple opportunities to meet Joe Cole and witness the FA Cup trophy firsthand as it tours prominent locations across Miami, including Chase Stadium (home of Inter Miami CF) and Hard Rock Stadium (home of the Miami Dolphins and Miami Open). The trophy will be present at various sporting and entertainment events throughout its ten-day stay.
James Gray, Commercial Director at the FA, emphasized the strategic importance of the US market: “The U.S. represents one of the most exciting and highly-engaged soccer fan bases in the world. By bringing the Emirates FA Cup to Miami, it provides us with an opportunity to give something back to the wonderful football community who have helped to grow the game while providing a platform for younger fans to be inspired by the magic of this historic competition.”
The FA Cup trophy tour will culminate in official watch parties at Temple House for two exciting FA Cup quarter-final clashes: Brighton & Hove Albion vs Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth vs Manchester City. These events will provide a fantastic opportunity for fans in Miami to experience the excitement of the FA Cup live.
Key Highlights of the FA Cup Trophy Tour in Miami:
- Ten-Day Showcase: The FA Cup trophy will be in Miami for ten days.
- Joe Cole’s Presence: Chelsea legend and two-time FA Cup winner Joe Cole will accompany the trophy.
- Fan Engagement Events: Opportunities for fans to see the trophy and meet Joe Cole at various locations, including Chase Stadium and Hard Rock Stadium.
- Quarter-Final Watch Parties: Official watch parties at Temple House for select FA Cup quarter-final matches.
- Goal: To connect with and inspire US football fans and further grow the FA Cup’s popularity in America.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of FA Cup history in Miami! Follow the FA’s social media channels for updates on trophy tour locations and watch party details. Embrace the magic of the FA Cup and join the growing community of American football fans!
Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Football, FA Cup, Chelsea, USA, FA