ECNL and IBERCUP Partner for International Boys Youth Soccer Tournament

The Elite Clubs National League has announced a long-term partnership with the IBERCUP to bring U11 and U12 soccer clubs from around the world to America for an international boys youth tournament for the first time.

IBERCUP x ECNL International – Raleigh, NC USA 2026 will kick off Labor Day Weekend in 2026, bringing players and teams from around the world to North Carolina. Nearly 200 U11 and U12 teams from Europe, South America, Asia and the United States will play in the four-day tournament, which will provide competitive, developmental and cultural opportunities for players, teams, coaches and clubs.

“For nearly two decades the ECNL has brought together the best clubs in America for competition, and we are thrilled to be able to expand that mission to bring some of the best clubs across the globe here to the United States,” said ECNL President Christian Lavers. “The IBERCUP has hosted fantastic events all over the world, featuring household club names with future world stars, and we could not have asked for a better partner to help create what will be the most exciting event on the calendar for U11 and U12 American soccer players.”

“This partnership with ECNL is an important milestone for IBERCUP,” said IBERCUP President Filipe Rodrigues. “Bringing an international IBERCUP tournament to the United States has long been part of our vision.

“Together with ECNL, we will offer young players a competitive environment that reflects the reality of international football, where performance, learning, and cultural exchange go hand in hand. We are confident this event will become a reference point for youth football in the U.S.”

Tournament Format

IBERCUP x ECNL International – Raleigh, NC USA 2026 will provide 7v7 min-game competition at U11 and U12 boys age groups. Teams will be guaranteed six games during the four-day event, with every team competing for the tournament championship in a combination of group and knock-out play.

More information regarding IBERCUP x ECNL International – Raleigh, NC USA 2026, including competing teams and group placements, are set to be announced in due course.