A successful anniversary:
Ten years of intercultural football tournament for "Refugee Day.
For the tenth time, the alliance "Willkommen im Fußball" organized an intercultural football tournament last Sunday (18.10.2026) on the occasion of the "Day of Refugees."
On the grounds of the Oberspree training center, eleven teams with and without a migration background competed for the coveted trophies this time. Even in the group stage, intense matches developed, with players showing great commitment and passion for the game. Particularly pleasing: For the second time, an inclusion team, SV Startklar, participated. The team not only secured a strong fifth place but also had the best goalkeeper of the tournament in their keeper.
Despite the damp and cool weather, numerous spectators came to watch the partly high-profile matches. On the sidelines, there was cheering, celebrating, and shared excitement, and between the games, active participants, families, caregivers, and supporters engaged in conversation. These encounters off the field are what give the tournament its special character.
In the final, the team from the Internationaler Bund (IB) from the Bessemerstraße accommodation triumphed in a thrilling match against the "Fuchsbau" team. For the first time this year, an award for the best tournament player was also presented. It went to 17-year-old Yasher Hoeri from the Marienfelde team, who impressed the jury with his fine technique and excellent game understanding.
Impressions from the tournament
A big thank you goes to the FCU Oldies, who wonderfully took care of the culinary well-being, as well as to the confidently officiating referees, who ensured fair games with calmness and confidence. Thanks also to the foundation of 1. FC Union Berlin "UNION VEREINT. Schulter an Schulter," the International Bund Berlin-Brandenburg, Alep e.V., and the Spielfeld gUG as the sponsors of the welcome alliance for their support.