Have you heard of five-a-side football? If you happen to be a fan or amateur player looking for an opportunity to compete, the good news is that the 2018 Football Five's World Championship (F5WC) is slated to take place in Shanghai later this year.

When the launch event of the 2018 championship was held on June 6, James Davies Yandle, President of the F5WC, introduced to the audience the history of the event:“F5WC is the world’s largest 5-a-side tournament and the only global 5-a-side event. Founded in 2014, F5WC aims to provide a world-class, professional football experience to all players aged 16 years+ from anywhere in the world.”

Having been successfully held for four years, the football event has earned the nickname of "The Little World Cup of Five-a-side Football." This year, it has attracted more than two million participants from 68 countries and regions including Germany, England, Argentina, France, Uruguay, the United States and Italy. After six months of regional competitions, a total of 40 teams composed of around 500 players will gather in Shanghai vying for the final crown.

Before that, 48 teams from all over China will compete in Shanghai from September 7th to 9th for the final berth representing China.

At a press conference held in Beijing this May, Italian football star Marco Materazzi was announced as the 2018 F5WC global ambassador. It is reported that the famous footballer will not only be engaged in the promotion of the event, but will also lead the F5WC finalists to participate in a variety of interactive activities.