SOC CEREX 2001

Instead of the official opening of Soccerex 2001 with Sir Geoff Hurst, we are instead formally announcing the new dates of Soccerex which are April 29th-30th 2002. Due to recent political events and subsequent tensions, we were left with no choice but to reschedule Soccerex to a month before the World Cup. This has been disappointing of course but we are pleased to announce not one single cancellation and all companies/associations that have signed up are still attending. In fact, with the new positioning of Soccerex in relation to the World Cup, interest in Soccerex has only increased. Indeed, with the much appreciated support and assistance of the UAEFA, The Department of Tourism and Commerce, Emirates Airline and Jumeirah International, we are looking forward to an even bigger and more successful gathering of the footballing world next Spring.

Following a meeting in Dubai with the UAE Football Association and his Excellency Abdullah AlNaboodah, Soccerex received the full backing of His Highness Sheikh Saeed bin Zayed Al Nahayan. Sheikh Saeed was particularly pleased that the difficulties of the last few weeks had been overcome and was delighted to welcome Soccerex to Dubai in April.

Paul Barber, Head of Marketing for the English Football Association, remarked on the date change:

“We, as an association are looking forward to attending Soccerex in April in Dubai and showcasing new developments over the past 2 years in the English game off the field, culminating in our recent qualification for the World Cup in Japan and Korea”.

The Chief Executive of South African Football and World Cup 2010 bid, Danny Jordaan, said:

“I am delighted to be participating at Soccerex in Dubai, now in April. Our World Cup 2010 stand will welcome all visitors and as an association, we are pleased with the opportunity to meet new and varied potential partners, friends and business colleagues. This will be our sixth Soccerex and we have never been more excited then this year’s destination – Dubai”.

Soccerex’ Chief Executive Officer, Duncan Revie, had this to say:

“Soccerex in April will bring to Dubai expertise from a broad spectrum. From sports construction and architecture to law, to the latest in football marketing techniques. Presentations from the founders of The Premier League and Serie A; How a footballing nation emerges from the second or third tier to become a major international competitor.

I am both gratified and pleased that despite the short term problems, Dubai will still be home to the first Soccerex in the Gulf”.

Sir Geoff Hurst said of the change:

“I am still looking forward to opening Soccerex on the 29th April with His Highness Sheikh Saeed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Football Association. On a personal note, I am also looking forward to bringing my family to the beautiful city of Dubai”.