Roger Hampel
In a landmark move for international football relations, AC Milan is set to face AS Roma in a friendly match in Perth, Australia, at the end of May 2024. This encounter, scheduled for Friday, 31 May at the state-of-the-art Optus Stadium, is not just a showcase of Serie A's football prowess but a strategic play in the global sports business arena.
The match marks the first time two Serie A giants will compete on Australian soil, a testament to the growing global outreach and commercial strategy of Italian football. Supported by the Government of Western Australia, this event underscores the burgeoning ties between Italy and Australia, leveraging football's massive appeal to foster international connections and drive tourism and economic benefits for the region.
Roger Cook, Premier of Western Australia, highlighted the dual benefits of the event, emphasizing its role in strengthening Italian-Australian ties and boosting tourism. "Hosting a match between AC Milan and AS Roma here in Perth is a fantastic opportunity for us to strengthen our ties with Italy and invite football fans from our key tourism markets," he stated, pointing to the match's potential to attract global audiences to Western Australia's diverse attractions.
AC Milan's CEO, Giorgio Furlani, echoed this sentiment, underlining the club's commitment to its international fanbase and the strategic importance of such matches in enhancing AC Milan's global brand. "Our presence in the country not only signifies our commitment to our international fanbase but also serves as a testament to our dedication to staying closer to our family of supporters across the globe," Furlani noted.
The friendly game is part of a broader strategy by AC Milan to engage with its international supporters and expand its global footprint. With a robust fanbase exceeding 2 million people in Australia and a growing following in the Asia-Pacific region, AC Milan recognizes the significance of nurturing these relationships. The club's history of engaging with Australian fans, through initiatives like the Milan Junior Camps and support for community projects, highlights its long-term commitment to the Australian market and its potential to drive growth off the pitch.
This strategic encounter between AC Milan and AS Roma represents more than just a game; it's a pivotal moment in the business of football, showcasing how clubs can leverage international friendlies to strengthen brand perception, engage with fans worldwide, and create new revenue streams through strategic partnerships and tourism. As the world of football continues to globalize, such innovative approaches to international marketing and fan engagement are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the sport.
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