Nota de Prensa
JUE 06.03.2025
As part of their ongoing commitment to grassroots soccer worldwide, EA SPORTS and LALIGA, in collaboration with J Balvin’s foundation Vibra en Alto, Love.Fútbol, and Fútbol con Corazón, have inaugurated a brand-new soccer pitch in the Manrique neighborhood of Medellín, as part of the global FC FUTURES initiative.
The inauguration of the Santa Inés Sports Court took place yesterday during an event that marked the beginning of a socially impactful project that will unfold in the coming months. The event featured the presence of LALIGA legend Fernando Morientes, who led a training session with local children, as well as a special appearance by Colombian artist J Balvin.
"Medellín is more than just my city; it's my home. Being part of FC FUTURES, a project that brings football to communities and creates a real impact on young people's lives, fills me with pride," said J Balvin. "Designing this pitch is my way of giving back to my people, creating a space where football and art come together to inspire new generations, where dreams can take shape, this has always been our goal with Vibra en Alta Foundation. I hope this place becomes a symbol of unity, passion, and opportunities for the youth of my hometown."
FC Futures aims to democratize access to sports and provide safe, accessible spaces for the community. This particular project comes with a unique twist: the pitch design was created by J Balvin himself, who infused the space with his iconic vibrant and colorful style. Inspired by Medellín’s urban culture and energy, Balvin’s artistic vision has transformed the pitch into a unique fusion of sport and urban art. Furthermore, this project plays a key role in the development of sustainability and community empowerment programs in the area.
“At EA SPORTS FC, we believe in the power of football to bring people together and create positive change for individuals and communities. Seeing this pitch come to life in Medellín, alongside LALIGA and our incredible partners, is a proud moment for us," said
James Salmon, Senior Director, FC Franchise Activation, EA SPORTS FC. "With FC FUTURES, we're not just opening new spaces to play—we're helping inspire the next generation of players by giving them access to the sport they love. We can't wait to see how this space becomes a hub for the community, where young people can grow, connect, and chase their dreams through football.”
A Project with Social Impact
This pitch is not only a place for sports practice; it will also become the epicenter of a comprehensive community development program. EA SPORTS and LALIGA will entrust the execution of this project to Love.Fútbol and Fútbol con Corazón, building upon the transformation of the Santa Inés Sports Court. Over the next nine months, the program will include:
● Creation and development of a mixed-gender football team, directly impacting 50 children, teens, and young people.
● Weekly training sessions for each group, adding up to over 100 hours of sports training.
● Integration of additional sports disciplines, such as men’s football, blind football, volleyball, basketball, and senior citizen activities, impacting over 300 people.
● Identification and training of 4 community coaches and young leaders, educated under Fútbol con Corazón’s methodology, with 40 hours of theoretical and practical training.
● Provision of sports equipment, including bibs, balls, cones, and more.
● On-the-ground support and follow-up with 6 virtual advisory sessions and 6 in-person visits from Fútbol con Corazón technical advisors.
The project promotes values such as gender equality, a culture of peace and non-violence, community empowerment, and the development of socio-emotional skills such as empathy, teamwork, and cooperation.
The Expansion of FC FUTURES
The FC FUTURES program, a global initiative led by EA SPORTS and LALIGA, has already transformed multiple communities through soccer. With the inauguration of this pitch in Medellín, FC FUTURES has now delivered five refurbished spaces in different cities worldwide, alongside the donation of more than 10,000 soccer balls and the development of programs like the Next Gen Draft, aimed at fostering young talent.
“Our partnership with EA SPORTS through FC FUTURES plays a vital role in bringing soccer to communities that need it the most. This project in Medellín is a perfect example of how the power of sport can drive meaningful, long-term change—creating safe spaces for young people and opening up new opportunities for their development and future,” said Jorge de la Vega, CEO of LALIGA.
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