MSC Cup 2025: Entries open for travel industry football competition

The pinnacle of the English football season is just around the corner once again, as the travel industry’s tribute acts to Harry Kane, Lucy Bronze and Jude Bellingham prepare to contest the MSC Cup 2025.

The seven-a-side charity event will return to Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge stadium in west London on Friday, May 30, with organisers aiming to grow the number of teams from 10 to 16.

The two previous competitions, held in 2019 and last year, raised a total of £57,000 for Derbyshire-based partner Reuben’s Retreat.

Antonio Paradiso, vice-president of international sales for MSC Group’s cruise division and UK and Ireland managing director of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, said: “I am delighted to host the MSC Cup for its third year at Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge stadium in London.

“These events bring members of the travel community together to battle it out on the pitch and have a lot of fun while doing so. 

“During the last two MSC Cup events, we raised an incredible £57,000 for our charity partner Reuben’s Retreat and we hope to raise even more to add to that figure this year.”

Squad game

Teams should consist of 10 players, including at least two female participants, with entries costing £3,000.

Last year’s competition was won by White Hart Associates, who triumphed 4-0 in the final against defending champions The Travel Network Group.

Stu Parish, UK chief executive of tournament supporter and Travel Weekly parent company Jacobs Media, called on the industry’s footballers to return to the fray this year and give even greater backing to Reuben’s Retreat.

He said: “Whether you fancy yourself as a bit of a Cole Palmer on the pitch, or whether you’re more of a John Terry, let’s see you sticking on those shinpads and taking your rightful place on Premier League turf.

“The time has come for us to settle the most important of debates for another year: Who are the best footballers in the travel industry?”

He added: “Travel Weekly is proud to be a long-standing supporter of Reuben’s Retreat and the outstanding work it does to help families in the northwest of England and beyond, so it is a privilege to continue our backing of this vital charity.”

Enter a team!

• The MSC Cup 2025 tournament takes place on Friday, May 30, from 2pm-5pm
• Squads should have 10 players and must include at least two female participants
• Entry costs £3,000 per team (additional contributions are welcome) and all proceeds will go to Reuben’s Retreat
• Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Fees must be paid within a week of confirmation of attendance
• To register your interest or to discuss sponsorship opportunities, companies should contact Shannon Coulding at shannon@reubensretreat.org