The Unity EURO Cup kicked off on October 14, on the KNVB Campus in Zeist, home of the Dutch national team, for its fourth edition. The tournament is organised by UEFA and the UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency) which unites refugees and players from the local community to promote inclusion, respect and solidarity through football. 

The opening day featured the forum Refugee Inclusion through Sport forum with contributions from representatives of UEFA, UNHCR, and KNVB, as well as testimonies from international players and ambassadors. They highlighted the value of football as a tool for integration and social cohesion, in line with UEFA Sustainability Strategy Policy 6 (Support for Refugees) and the FIGC Sustainability Strategy. 

The second day was completely dedicated to the football tournament, turning the KNVB campus into a stage for sports and friendships. 38 exciting 7-a-side games were played enthusiastically and fairly. 

Italy finished its Unity EURO Cup 2025 campaign among the top eight teams in Europe, showcasing the growth and team spirit that have always defined the FIGC Youth and School Sector’s ReTe Refugee Teams project. In the single-round group stage, the Azzurri delivered strong performances: a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, a 4-0 win over Malta, and a 2-0 victory against Slovenia, securing third place overall out of 18 participating teams.

A brilliant journey saw the team reach the quarter-finals, where they were defeated by reigning champions Latvia after an intense match fought to the final minute. The Italian squad, made up of players from Gambia, Cameroon, Colombia, Senegal, and Italy, proudly represented the values of inclusion, respect, and participation that underpin the FIGC project dedicated to refugees and local communities. 

The tournament concluded with Finland’s victory, beating Armenia on penalties after a balanced and thrilling final. With this win, the Scandinavian team claimed the trophy for the second time in four editions, making them a historic contender. All teams honored the spirit of the initiative promoted by UEFA and UNHCR, which for four years has used football as a tool for social integration and cultural exchange.

For Italy, which has participated in every edition since 2022, it was yet another valuable growth experience, with a united and determined team able to convey passion both on and off the pitch. All of these factors underscore the continuity of the journey and the FIGC’s ongoing commitment to promoting a more inclusive and supportive society through football. The next edition is set for 2026, when the Unity EURO Cup will take place in Italy, hosted at the Federal Technical Center in Coverciano.