International Soccer Tournament Brings Cincinnati's Global Community Together
International Center of Greater Cincinnati · 2026 Recap
In 2026, ICGC hosted its 6th annual International Soccer Tournament on June 6th and 7th. With 13 teams competing in the 18+ category, participants gathered to represent and show pride in different neighborhoods, organizations, cultural associations, and country groups from around Cincinnati.
The event is hosted annually in partnership with Bloc Ministries, Clifton Mosque, APNET, and the Interfaith Workers Center.
Dr. Ibrahim Amidou, who serves as Executive Director of the International Center of Greater Cincinnati, is also a UC professor and soccer coach committed to youth development, mentorship, and community service. He developed the event to provide a joyful, World Cup–style celebration of local international cultures in Cincinnati.
“The tournament is designed to bring together all of the different communities in Cincinnati. Any community that is in Cincinnati is invited to be part of the tournament. And the objective is to cultivate brotherhood, nurture friendship, and also present to the welcoming community, the welcoming city of Cincinnati, introduce them to the internationals.”
— Dr. Ibrahim Amidou, Executive Director
Beyond the camaraderie and competition of soccer, Dr. Amidou’s vision for the event is that international communities and individuals meet and mingle with each other, become visible as members of the Cincinnati community, and demonstrate that they exist here in the city.
“How do they stand within the city of Cincinnati, and Greater Cincinnati itself. Who are they? So that they are able to kind of understand who the internationals are, and also mingle with other cultures. Even though we come from different countries, we don’t know everything about other countries. But being together in this tournament helps us know ourselves as internationals, and also be able to contribute to the welcoming city of Cincinnati.”
— Dr. Ibrahim Amidou, Executive Director
Each year, organizers find teams excited to come together and join the two-day tournament. The event also provides an opportunity for the nonprofits involved to share about their programs, including employment support, help with wage theft, education opportunities, and health services.
ICGC’s own programs include English as a Second Language classes, the Food & Clothing Pantry, and Community Navigation support for people with limited English proficiency.
Want to Get Involved Next Year?
Registration details, tournament documents, and photo galleries for future tournaments will be posted on our dedicated tournament page.