The UEFA Champions League Experience is bringing the coveted Champions League trophy to Yas Mall on May 1 and 2.
The trophy is making its inaugural appearance in the country and will preview a UEFA concept store that is set to open at the mall in June. It will be the first of its kind.
The store will feature a fast-casual restaurant with dishes served in a stadium-inspired setting designed to replicate the atmosphere of the UEFA Champions League. Live matches and highlight and archive footage will be shown on giant television screens.
Fans visiting the 17,000-square-foot site will be able to buy merchandise from top European football clubs competing in the UEFA Champions League. Memorabilia signed by league legends will be on display and available for purchase. There will also be a museum where football devotees can learn more about their favourite teams and players.
The pre-opening event will give fans the chance to have their photos taken with the trophy. Additional activities have been scheduled.
Two of the world’s top football freestylers, Andrew Henderson and Guinness World Record-holder John Farnworth, will give demonstrations of “keepy-uppy”, a method of juggling the football.
“The UEFA Champions League Experience is committed to creating an exciting and immersive environment for the UAE’s multitude of football fans to experience their favourite tournament,” said Nick Peel, chief executive of Marka PJSC, operator of the store. “We will be giving a taste of what is to be expected with our special pre-opening activity, which will showcase the most eminent prize in European football – the UEFA Champions League trophy – alongside incredible ball control displays from the world’s two greatest football freestylers and a host of other activities. It really is a must-attend event for every true football fan.”
newsdesk@thenational.ae
