World Footy News

In an historic move by AFL Europe, the 2016 Euro Cup will be played in Lisbon, Portugal. Not a nation that boasts a major European competition, the move may be something of a surprise, but not to David Valente, one of the three directors of the Portugese Australian Football Association.

As David stated, “I don't have to tell you how huge this is for us.”

“Basically, AFL Europe is giving us a great opportunity and we're planning to seize it. With no TV broadcasts of AFL games for the time being, this is the best tool that we have to further the development of the game.”

(Picture: Official AFL Europe logo for 2016 Euro Cup)

“It was AFL Europe's idea to consider holding the cup over here, they thought it would help develop the game. They came over to look at venues, and we met personally. We talked about our experiences trying to get Portuguese people to play footy, gave them some information, and promised to do all in our power to help organise things.”

It remains to be seen as to whether a Portugese team can enter as there are regulations which may stand in the way of a national Australian Rules team. But that will be resolved in time. The more obvious, and arguably more valuable, benefit will be the chance to market the game again not just in Portugal but across the entire Iberian Peninsula. This also incorporates Spain (including Catalonia) and Andorra, all being home to past and present Australian Rules football teams.

More details will be released as the event draws near, but 8th October is the date for the event. David and the rest of the team in Portugal, and also at AFL Europe, are now tingling with excitement in readiness for the 2016 Euro Cup.

Portugal is now ready to write its own piece of Australian Rules football history.