One of the founding clubs of Major League Soccer in 1996, D.C. United has stated that it has reached an agreement with Ethiopian Football Federation to help the growth of football in the country. With 13 domestic and international trophies to its name D.C United is one of the biggest soccer clubs in the United States of America.
The growing collaboration comes because of co-owner Eyob Joe Mamo. Mamo, CEO of Capital Petroleum and an investor in D.C. United, is increasing his involvement with the organization by fostering a growing partnership between the club, the Ethiopian Football Federation, and the Ethiopian Premier League.
The club stated that the partnership is designed to create opportunities to develop future talent in Ethiopia while also bringing football events featuring Ethiopian clubs and its national team to Audi Field.
On Sept. 8, 2024, Audi Field will host the 2024 Ethiopian Soccer Legacy Match between Ethiopian Premier League sides Ethiopia Bunna and St. George FC.
“Through the time Joe Mamo and I have spent together in Washington, D.C. and in Addis Ababa, we have been building the foundation for a deepening relationship and connectivity between Audi Field, D.C. United, and the passionate Ethiopian football community,” D.C. United CEO & Co-chairman Jason Levien said. “The DMV is home to hundreds of thousands of Ethiopian Americans and it is a cultural and economic center which provides a platform to promote Ethiopian football and an intercultural exchange. We are thrilled to bring this historic event to Audi Field.”
“Today marks an exciting moment in the growth of the Ethiopian Football Federation, the Ethiopian Premier League, and MLS. This is an opportunity to develop the next generation of talent,” said Eyob Joe Mamo.
“Most importantly, through this collaborative partnership, we can make an indelible mark in creating cultural events at Audi Field with our Ethiopian clubs and national team which will impact the lives of the youth and adults in the community. I am humbled and honored to have this as the Mamo Kacha family’s legacy in soccer.”
