Magic of Football
In tune with the sporting spirit of the country, which is waiting for the Olympics and enjoying Wimbledon, Manchester celebrates the sport which is the symbol of the city. The National Football Museum will be open in the centre of the city on Friday, 6th July. The museum will take over the whole of the city’s landmark Urbis building and promises to become one of the UK’s ‘must see’ attractions, with three floors of objects, stories, interactive displays, ‘hands on’ activities, and a variety of exhibition programmes.
Exhibit highlights from this unique collection include a shirt from the world’s first international match played in 1872, the 1966 World Cup Final ball and the shirt worn by Maradona during the infamous 1986 ‘Hand of God’ quarter final match between England and Argentina.
There is something for everybody in the new museum, from experienced fans to their children and grandchildren – a place to spend time together and enjoy the magic of football as a family. Kevin Moore, National Football Museum Director said, “We have designed our museum to appeal to families with children of all ages. The purpose of the Discovery Zone and Football Plus+ is to engage and educate visitors. By experiencing interactive objects, games and displays, kids can learn about the national game but most importantly, have fun.”
Councillor Mike Amesbury, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure for Manchester City Council, said: “Mention Manchester to anyone around the world and one of the first things they will think of is football, so it’s the perfect location for a must-see shrine to the global game. Whichever team you support, and even if you only have a passing interest in football, the museum is sure to be a winning attraction.”
